PNP starts crackdown amid kidnappings

MANILA, Philippines — Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr. has ordered a crackdown on vehicles without license plates or with improvised plates in the wake of reports of alleged kidnapping incidents.

“At the same time, we need to intensify our operations against stolen vehicles,” Azurin said in a statement yesterday.

Azurin specifically mentioned reports that a white van is allegedly to kidnap people in Metro Manila.

One supposed case involving a 13-year-old girl from Caloocan City was later found to be a hoax by the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO).

He believes another way is to coordinate with the Land Transportation Office to strengthen the campaign against cart theft.

Azurin urged the public to report immediately in case they notice suspicious looking vehicles so that authorities can respond accordingly.

NCRPO director Brig. Gen. Jonnel Estomo, for his part, reminded people to be extra vigilant in appreciating news and reports on various social media platforms to prevent undue and unnecessary anxiety and fear from spreading in the community.