THE Bacolod City Anti-Mendicancy Task Force is intensifying its operations to apprehended "rugby boys" (kids who sniff solvent) staying in various areas in the city.
This, after the Department of Social Services Development (DSSD) received a letter from the government’s 888 emergency hotline regarding the sightings of several “rugby” boys, or those considered as inhalant abusers.
Elizabeth Caumban, social welfare officer II, said they were given five days to submit a report.
Since August 12, about 12 minors, who were sniffing solvent, were arrested along Lacson Street, San Juan Street, Public Plaza, Central Market, Libertad Market, Circumferential Road, North Drive, and Golden Field Commercial Complex.
The operation was conducted by the DSSD team led by Caumban, along with personnel of Bacolod City Police Office Women and Children Protection Desk.
Caumban said some of the minors were endorsed to the Social Development Center while the others were returned to their parents.
She added that “rugby” boys have been involved in some crime incidents in the city.
Caumban said the DSSD will hold a case conference with the parents of the minors together with the barangay officials to address the problem.
She added that they conduct operations every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday to arrest “rugby” boys, and commercial sex workers soliciting in the streets.