Crime-free first week of classes

The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) reported yesterday zero crime incidents involving students in Metro Manila during the first week of classes.

"We have not received any reports of crime incidents involving students as of yet. Hopefully, this will continue when private and college students report for their first day on June 13," Metro police chief Director Vidal Querol said.

He attributed the crime-free week to the deployment of 6,000 policemen near school campuses, particularly in crime "hot spots" in Metro Manila.

He also lauded local government units (LGUs) for acting positively to his call to improve lighting on thoroughfares and roads, especially those in the vicinity of school campuses, to prevent criminals from striking against students on their way home.

The NCRPO chief directed his five district directors not to lower their guard against criminality even after the initial success of "Oplan Balik Paaralan."

Querol also ordered Senior Superintendent Felipe Rojas Jr., NCRPO intelligence chief, to conduct raids on known criminal lairs as a pre-emptive measure.

"We should neutralize these criminals before they can strike," he said.

Querol made a last-minute tour of private and public schools in Manila yesterday to exchange views with students, especially on the continuing police effort to protect them from street criminals. – Non Alquitran