NCRPO finds lapses in SPD stations

MANILA, Philippines — National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) director Maj. Gen. Okubo found lapses in several police stations of the Southern Police District (SPD) during a surprise inspection he conducted on Friday night.

He said he found that in Maharlika, Taguig, the police station had only one officer on duty while the other officers were assigned to checkpoints.

No officers assigned to customer relations were on duty at the Baclaran, Parañaque police station, according to Okubo.

No closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras were installed to monitor the detention cells – which were cramped – in police stations in Malibay, Pasay and Bangkal, Makati, Okubo said.

Also in Pasay, Okubo ordered the station’s Scene of the Crime Operations personnel investigated after he found they were not wearing uniforms while on duty.

Okubo told The STAR yesterday that he will ask SPD director Brig. Gen. Kirby John Kraft to explain the police stations’ deficiencies.

To address the lack of personnel, Okubo said he ordered the implementation of a “buddy system” so at least two police officers will be on duty at a police station.

As for the lack of CCTV cameras, he said the procurement of equipment is up to the district director and station commanders, who may ask local government or stakeholders for donations.