NATIONAL Bureau of Investigation-Southern Mindanao Regional Office (NBI-Semro) executive officer Exzel A. Hernandez said they have not received any order from the central office lifting the directive on the suspension of their operations during the holidays.

"Up to now wala pang order na i-lift ang directive na binigay nila pero case to basis 'yan (there is no order yet to lift the directive that they give, but that’s case to basis) and we still act on cases that need urgency," Hernandez told Sun.Star.

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He said even without the written directive, they still act on complaints after securing an authority from their central office.

"Kung may pupunta na complainant and may authority sa Manila, we are making actions and sa mga ganyan, prerogative na 'yan ng chief of office," Hernandez said, adding that the earlier directive can only be lifted by a written order from their central office.

NBI-Semro spokesperson lawyer Arcelito Albao earlier said they are directed to suspend investigations and application for search warrants.

However, Albao said the lawless elements and suspects of heinous crimes, dangerous drugs, illegal possession of firearms and terroristic activities will not be covered by the directive. (RMH)