PRO-7 Chief to cops: Fight, do not fear criminals

CEBU, Philippines -  The new Police Regional Office-7 director, Chief  Superintendent Prudencio Bañas, has reminded his men to always be on the offensive when facing the enemies.

He further told the policemen that the possible retaliation of the companions of those killed in the recent shooting incident in Bohol is not a thing to be afraid of.

Following the death of the alleged big time drug lord, former police officer Owen Rosales, and his four other companions, Bohol has been placed under heightened alert status.

The incident came after the ambush of Ubay Police Chief Senior Inspector George Caña, believed to be perpetrated by the group.

It has been reported that some police officers in Bohol have been receiving death threats after the incident.

“Why are you in service if you are afraid to face the criminals? That’s a no-no in so far as I am concerned. You cannot use that alibi na hindi ka magtatrabaho dahil gaganti sila,” Bañas said.

He urged the police to continue looking for the hideouts of the drug lords.

“Tuloy ang laban. Hanapin pa sila. You must be in the offensive not in the defensive. If you cannot do your job then  tell me, we’ll find somebody else who would be willing to do the job,” he added.

Bañas took oath on Wednesday as the new PRO-7 director, replacing Chief Superintendent Danilo Constantino who was reassigned to Camp Crame.

Bañas vowed to intensify their aim to curb the illegal drug operations in the region.

The new PRO-7 director met with Cebu Governor Hilario Davide III, the new chairman of the Regional Peace and Order Council-7, during the celebration of the 116th Independence Day.

Davide assured that the problem on illegal drugs will be discussed on the next RPOC meeting on June 23. — (FREEMAN)