Deeper probe on comeback of robbery gangs in Iloilo eyed
Strings of robbery-hold-up incidents in the Province of Iloilo call for a deeper, more thorough investigation. While at it, the need to strengthen intelligence network of authorities must be addressed with the reported presence of "handlers" immediately validated.
Such was the statement of First District Board Member Richard Garin when apprised yesterday of disturbing criminalities in the province. Garin is chairman of the Committee on Public Order and Security.
In March alone, Iloilo Provincial Police Office (IPPO) responded to five major robbery-hold ups here followed up by three heists at the start of this month. The most recent occurred in the Municipality of Lambunao where armed suspects escaped with at least P200,000 in loot.
Aksyon Radyo's Febe "Tibor" Morales in a report quoted IPPO Director Senior Superintendent Ric Dela Paz as having identified the "Roger Palma Gang" as culprits in the Iloilo incidents.
Charges have been lodged thus far however the robberies continued and appeared to have even been bolder.
Garin was told of the possibility that the same crime group is involved here though involvement of other gangs was not outrightly dismissed.
The News Today (TNT) learned that modus operandi of the suspects employed an elaborate surveillance prior to the 'execution.' Two teams were deployed, one for the surveillance itself and the other the main job.
Usual targets were traders and collectors of lending companies.
"From our end in the Iloilo Sanggunian Panlalawigan (SP) and as chairman of the Committee on Public Order and Security, I see the need to have a complete look of the surrounding circumstances of the incidents. Unfortunate for Iloilo and the administration of Governor Niel Tupas that all of these are happening," Garin said in the Aksyon Radyo interview.
Garin also stressed the need for immediate resolution of the problem saying it is reflective of the people's lack of respect on the men and women in uniform.