Police warn Ilonggos against thieves in downtown area
The Iloilo City Police Office has reiterated its reminder to Ilonggos to be vigilant against petty street criminals this Christmas season.
Supt. Eugenio Espejo, assistant city police director, said record shows that street crimes particularly at the downtown area usually increase during December.
The downtown area, the center of trade and industry in the city, is where
petty criminals find an opportunity to victimize shoppers, he said.
Common street crimes include pickpocketing, bag slashing and snatching, car theft, among others.
“Most people have more money for shopping and buying Christmas gifts. We appeal to the public to be watchful,” he said, adding that every shopper should be particularly attentive to his/her belongings.
This month, the ICPO has deployed additional uniformed police personnel
to crowded areas, aside from traffic aides and police auxiliaries, to preempt crimes.
“They will help increase police visibility with the expected influx of visitors in the city this Christmas season,” Espejo said.
He said the additional police personnel will secure public places such as malls, banks, markets, churches, parking areas, parks and local tourist destinations.
Moreover, Espejo warned the public against swindlers called the budol-budol gang known for their sweet talk and hypnotism.
He said people should not entertain strangers to avoid being convinced by their proposals.
“This gang is usually offering big money to their probable victims so that they would also show their money to them,” he said.*
