CIDG-7 told to shape up

CEBU, Philippines —  The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG)-7 has been told to work harder in the investigation of sensational cases in the region.

CIDG national director Police Major General Eliseo Cruz, during his visit to Cebu on Saturday, said that CIDG-7 needs to “improve” in the aspect of solving celebrated cases, particularly those with Special Investigation Task Group (SITG). 

"Siguro kailangan namin i-improve ang investigation aspect lalo na doon sa sensational cases, ito yung guidance natin kanina na tutukan ng husto ang SITG cases na hinahawakan, lalo na pag hindi na malakas ang isyu," Cruz said.

Cruz said that CIDG-7 should continue to pursue “cold cases” that are no longer talked about by the media and the public in general.

Cold cases are those that are not solved after six months due to lack of witnesses, evidence and unknown perpetrators. Records at CIDG-7 showed 46 cold cases since 2015.

Although CIDG-7 regional director Col. Ireneo Dalogdog claimed to have made significant progress in three of these cases recently, having filed charges against the suspects.

Cruz emphasized that no case should be labeled as “cold case”. He said all cases must be pursued until those responsible are arrested or charged.

"Sa CIDG, there's no such thing as cold cases, patuloy ang imbestigasyon, siguro matatawag lang ito na mahirap i-solve, hindi sya hinihinto," Cruz said.

Meanwhile, Cruz has reminded all CIDG-7 personnel to remain apolitical in the upcoming elections. Instead, he encouraged them to focus on their mandate.

Cruz directed Dalogdog to strictly monitor his men and keep them away from any partisan activities.

"Yan ang inaasahan natin," said Cruz. — FPL (FREEMAN)