SHARIFF AGUAK, Maguindanao -- Crime incidents in Maguindanao have dramatically dropped to its lowest since Mindanao was placed under Martial Law following the Marawi siege three months ago, a police official said Wednesday.
Senior Supt. Agustin Tello, Maguindanao provincial police director, told reporters the crime incidents have been reduced by as high as 80 percent as compared to the time when martial law was not in place.
“I cannot provide exact figure but crime incidents have dramatically reduced due to martial law,” Tello said, adding that no reported human rights violation arising from the declaration of military rule had been reported since May 23.
On May 23, President Duterte placed the entire island of Mindanao under martial law to prevent the supporters and sympathizers of Maute and Abu Sayyaf groups from terrorizing communities outside Marawi City.
Tello said the presence of more checkpoints on major highways and the pro-active stance of the police, along with the military in Maguindanao’s 36 municipalities contributed to the crime volume reduction.
Tello would not claim credit for the reduction of violence and petty crimes in Maguindanao and lauded the stakeholders across the province.
“Credit should go to all the stakeholders, meaning every one of us,” he said.
Tello lauded the public in general and law enforcers in particular, including force multipliers in every town.
The daily information drive of the municipal office to its constituents was also a major factor “because the public is informed and helped the police identify and eventually arrest persons involved in illegal drugs who were also involved in other crimes."
Tello also advised the public to continue supporting the police and military authorities in crime prevention.
He reminded everyone to cooperate with the local police in highway checkpoints and urged the public not to be worried about the martial law as this is primarily aimed at restoring law and order.
“If you have not done something illegal, they you have nothing to be afraid of, as simple as that,” Tello said, adding that the police continues its cooperation and partnership with the 6th Infantry Division in the fight against outlawed and ISIS inspired Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters.
“Your police cannot do it alone, we need the peoples support,” Tello said.(PNA)
* Stay at Home and START YOUR OWN blog site, business or personal website, or e-commerce store at
www.wirenine.comLinkback:
https://tubagbohol.mikeligalig.com/index.php?topic=106070.0
