Armed groups here in Cebu?

CEBU, Philippines - Provincial Police Director Sr. Supt. Erson Digal said yesterday they received reports of armed groups from Mindanao that have arrived in Cebu, which prompted him to order his men to thoroughly monitor the peace and order situation in the province.

Digal said he has also instructed his men to “neutralize” these armed men once their presence here is confirmed.

Sr. Supt. Melvin Ramon Buenafe, chief of the Regional Intelligence Division, said they are verifying the reports received by Digal’s office.

Buenafe said reports of armed groups arriving in Cebu have surfaced since the start of the campaign period, but police visibility and checkpoints across the province should have prevented possible attacks.

Buenafe said they will not ignore reports of such nature to maintain peace and order in the province, especially this election season.

Buenafe urged the public to be vigilant with the presence of armed groups in their area. He said it would certainly help if the public can send the police pictures and/or videos of suspicious individuals so that the police can act on these concerns.

“Magtulungan tayong lahat, kasi lahat tayo gusto ng honest orderly and peaceful election,” Buenafe said.

He assured that the election on May 10 will be peaceful and orderly. (FREEMAN NEWS)