THE Davao City Police Office (DCPO) denied the involvement of its personnel in the series of whipping incidents in Sasa contrary to claims that one of their personnel was one of the perpetrators.
Speaking during the AFP-PNP media forum Wednesday, October 2, DCPO spokesperson Captain Nolan Tagsip said several measures were undertaken to address the issue and at the same time dismiss the allegations that it was a police-initiated operation.
"On the allegations accusing us, the Philippine National Police (PNP), as the one who are responsible for those incidents, the Davao City Police Office vehemently denies the false accusation that they throw upon us. That would be unfair on our part. We are the law enforcer, we serve and protect the people and not the other way around," Tagsip said.
He said although there were already several victims who posted their experiences online, only one so far has approached the police station to have it recorded.
Thus, he urged other victims to come forward and file a proper complaint, and not just post it online, to aid in the investigation process and to further identify the persons behind it.
"The concern of gangsterism is not just the job of the Philippine National Police or the local government unit, specifically the barangay level. It is a shared responsibility and shared commitment of the Philippine National Police, AFP, the barangay level and especially the parents," Tagsip added.
The DCPO has stepped up its security measures with ronda patrol to fight robbery, thieveries, and other relevant crimes and Sagop Kabataan or the rescue of minors who are still on the streets during curfew hours. The rescued children in conflict with the law (CICL) will be sent to school so that they will be reformed.
DCPO Director Alexander Tagum also instructed the station commanders to conduct a thorough and deeper investigation on the incident, as there is a possibility that the group involved is seeking revenge.
"We would also like to remind all parents in the city to secure their children to avoid them from joining the local youth gangs or criminal activities in our communities. If you have information or have witnessed any violent or crime activity in your area, kindly report to the nearest police station so that our police may immediately intervene and act on the said incident," Tagsip added.