Cops’ presence sought to combat Christmas crimes

CEBU, Philippines — Christmas is around the corner, and so are pickpockets, snatchers, and robbers.

Anticipating a rise in snatching and robbery cases this yuletide season, the Cebu City Council is asking the police to assign officers in public places identified to be frequented by these petty criminals.

In a resolution approved by the council last week, Council Prisca Niña Mabatid said there is a need for more police visibility from September to December to suppress crimes during the Christmas season.

“Christmas is among the festivities celebrated longest by Filipinos, usually celebrated from September to January. Crime rate significantly rises from the month of September to December,” Mabatid, author of the resolution, said.

Mabatid is banking on the presence of police officers as a deterrent against robbery and snatching incidents.

She said the Cebu City government is empowered to adopt measures to promote health and safety of the constituents under Section 16 of the Local Government Code.

Under the resolution, the city shall assist in establishing police assessment tents in places identified or classified as hotspots for snatchers and robbers.

The police are also requested to conduct regular roving or patrolling within the city. (FREEMAN)