PHILIPPINE National Police chief General Benjamin C. Acorda Jr. said they have noted a 27.79 percent reduction in major crimes in the country from January 1 to February 2, this year, a significant peace and order development which he attributed to solid police-community partnership.

According to the top cop, they registered 2,580 Index Crimes during the period compared to the 3,573 recorded during the same period in 2023 or 993 crimes less and a 27.78 percent decrease in Focus Crimes or from 3,546 to 2,561 which is 985 crimes less during the same comparative period.

From January 1 to February 3 this year, Gen. Acorda said they also conducted 3,993 anti-drug operations nationwide which resulted in the arrest of 4,823 targets and the seizure of some P359 million worth of shabu and other prohibited substances; arrested 6,069 wanted persons and also jailed 709 persons in their campaign against illegal firearms.

He said that a total of 3,384 illegal guns were recovered by the police during the same period which also saw the arrest of 21 known New People’s Army members, the neutralization of 8 and the surrender of 269 others.

The PNP chief said that the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group likewise continued their operations during the period where they served 31 warrants of arrests, launched 12 entrapment operations and served a warrant to search, seize and examine computer data while also providing technical assistance to other PNP units.

“I want to assure the public that our unwavering dedication to upholding the rule of law, safeguarding the security and welfare of our citizens, and promoting unity for the advancement of our cherished nation continues to be our top priority,” Gen. Acorda said.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Alfred P. Dalizon