Car thefts drop by 70% – PNP

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine National Police (PNP) recorded a 70-percent decrease in car theft cases over the past 16 months, officials said yesterday.

The PNP Directorate for Investigation and Detective Management (DIDM) reported that an average of eight car theft incidents were recorded from Aug. 24 to Sept. 27, which is 70 percent lower than the average of 39 incidents in June 2014, before the implementation of Oplan Lambat-Sibat, an anti-crime campaign initiated by the Department of Interior and Local Government.

PNP chief Director General Ricardo Marquez said PNP units should continue working hard to improve the anti-crime effort of the government.

According to the PNP-DIDM under Director Benjamin Magalong, the Quezon City Police District (QCPD) recorded only one incident during the same period. He said it was a significant improvement since Quezon City used to be known as the car theft capital of the country.

Magalong’s report stated that out of 39 car thefts in June 2014, the QCPD recorded 15 cases.

From Sept. 21 to 27, the Southern Police District also recorded only one car theft; Manila Police District and Eastern Police District reported two cases each; and Northern Police District, three cases.

The DIDM also noted that 86 percent of stolen public utility vehicles from Jan. 5 to Sept. 27 were taxicabs and 12 percent were jeepneys; while 27 percent of stolen private vehicles were vans, followed by sedans at 19 percent, sport utility vehicles at 18 percent and cargo trucks at 17 percent.

On the other hand, 54 percent of carnapped vehicles were stolen while parked and 29 percent of these were forcibly taken.

The DIDM said about 63 percent of these incidents happened from midnight until 8 a.m.

Marquez reminded the public anew to be more vigilant against car thieves, especially at night.

“Always park your car at safe, secure and well-lighted places or areas. Install security alarms and security devices in your car. Make sure to lock your car windows and doors at all times,” he said.

The PNP plans to upgrade its anti-crime campaign by visiting business establishments that sell second-hand motor vehicles to ensure their legitimacy and eliminate the chances of selling stolen vehicles.