MANILA – The Philippine National Police (PNP) denied on Wednesday that a serial killer and members of a criminal gang in a white van are responsible for a string of reported killings and disappearances.
“We do not see any serial killer here because different people and motives are involved. We also do not have reported incidents of a white van being used in abducting people,” said PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo in a television interview.
Fajardo, on the other hand, acknowledged the importance of social media posts in raising public awareness about crimes and resolving cases under investigation by the police.
Interior Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. stated in a Palace briefing that he needs to get accurate crime incident figures regarding the reported spate of killings and abductions before making any comments on the issue.
Abalos said he has asked PNP chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr. to submit a report on the series of reported killings that have sparked public outrage, particularly as classes resume this year.
“I spoke with PNP chief Azurin because figures are being released.” I’m just curious about the timeline and whether these incidents are true or made up. I haven’t seen the reports yet. He informed me that there have been cases of rehashed incidents, so I don’t want to comment if no numbers have been provided. What matters is that we hear from the PNP,” Abalos said in a mixture of English and Filipino.
Meanwhile, Abalos assuaged concerns about the issue by stating that his first order of business as DILG Secretary will be to increase “police visibility” on the streets.
He also recognized the importance of village personnel in maintaining community peace and order.
Source: Philippine News Agency
