LAOAG CITY — The police in Region 1 have apprehended 2,281 people since the start of the intensified operations against street criminals and loiterers under “Oplan RODY” (Rid the Streets of Drunkards and Youths) last month.
A report released by the Police Regional Office 1 (PRO1) on Tuesday showed that most or 1,313 of the accosted individuals were curfew violators, while 453 were involved in trouble, stoning, gang wars, urinating in public places, loitering and non-use of helmets. There were 326 persons apprehended for drinking in prohibited areas, 125 caught for smoking in public, and 64 were found half-naked in public places.
Chief Superintendent Romulo Sapitula, Regional Director of the Philippine National Police-Region 1, said the apprehended persons were released after safekeeping.
“Our main intension is not to ruin your leisure time or to accuse you of anything, but it is a proactive way of preventing crimes,” said Sapitula, as he explained that the continuing operations are meant to strengthen the enforcement of national and local laws known to people for a very long time.
Superintendent Cherry M. Fajardo, spokesperson of the PNP-Region 1, said street crimes are not new and are common problems of the community.
She said several ordinances, especially on curfew, have been implemented but similar problems still exist.
“It is the responsibility of the PNP to trap and pin down the sources of any disorder in the community. That is why the main efforts of the Police Regional Office 1 are focused on maintenance of peace and order and continuously conduct law enforcement against street crimes,” said Fajardo.
She likewise appealed to the general public to report any crime or illegal activities to the nearest police station or contact the authorities through 072-607-6582. (Leilanie Adriano/PNA)
