PNP strengthens special anti- carjacking operations group

By Leilanie G. Adriano

Staff reporter

Laoag City—The Philippine National Police is set to strengthen a dedicated unit to correct the increasing trend of carjacking incidents mostly in this city.

The Special Anti-Carjacking Operations Group (SACOG), currently headed by P/Supt. Julius Niegos, deputy provincial director for operations of the Ilocos Norte Police Provincial Office (INPPO) is set to implement counter measures and additional work force to address car theft incidents here.

Police report shows that from January to November 30 this year, about 120 carjacking incidents have been recorded both from the first and second districts of Ilocos Norte. Of the 86 cases in the first district, 68 cases happened in Laoag City.

According to outgoing provincial police director P/Sr. Supt. Antonio Mendoza Jr., the spike of incidents happened in September as motorcycles were jacked while unattended or were parked outside residences during the wee hours in the morning.

While there are CCTV installed in various strategic places, Mr. Mendoza said that almost all incidents had no eye witnesses.

In view of this, the police has sought the help of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan to sponsor a resolution to check on the list of dealers of motor parts through the city or municipal business licensing division including the provision of additional funding to help solve this problem.

With additional funding for mobility, the police seeks to strengthen the seven-member SACOG, which will now composed of several personnel from the police’s intelligence and operations including its operating arms involving all city and municipal police stations and the Highway Patrol Group.