5 cops in hot water for traffic violations

CEBU, Philippines — At least five policemen are now in trouble for violating traffic regulations during a random inspection by the Highway Patrol Group.

These policemen were found either wearing slippers while driving, driving with an expired license, driving without a license, or not bringing other necessary documents.

Police Captain Saturnino Sedigo, chief of Metro Cebu Highway Patrol Team of the HPG, led the surprise inspection at the Cebu City Police Office in Camp Sotero Cabahug.

He was able to confiscate the licenses of two on-duty policemen, and issued them a Temporary Operator’s Permit.

Meanwhile, Police Captain Michael Gingoyon the chief of the Cebu Province HPG said they found three policemen who did not bring their driver’s license.

The officials said that the surprise inspection is part of the PNP’s internal cleansing.

Sedigo said that as law enforcers, policemen should set a good example.

“Kailangan maging modelo kami, before kami mag-enforce ng batas kailangan sa sarili naming pinatupad muna namin,” he said.

Since those accosted were active policemen, it will be up to their superiors if they are charged administratively for their offenses.

“Sa violations nila, ay sa traffic laws muna and it will depend sa mga nakakataas sa kanila kung ano ang kanilang magiging administrative case,” he said.

He advised those driving vehicles to update their licenses and make sure they are wearing the proper clothing while driving.

After visiting CCPO, the HPG personnel proceed to the regional headquarters in Camp Sergio Osmeña, then to police offices in Mandaue City and Lapu-Lapu City.

The crackdown against erring PNP traffic violators will continue, as the HPG said they will enforce stricter inspections among their own ranks.

The HPG functions as a separate unit from the Cebu City and Cebu Province police offices. (FREEMAN)