By MAE FAITH BAÑARIA and CHANNAH M. LOPEZ, GSD Interns
CAGAYAN de Oro City Police (COCPO) held a press briefing on Wednesday to address the alarming spike in shooting incidents and theft across the city.
The invited speaker, COCPO spokesman Police Lt. Colonel Evan Viñas, featured and provided valuable insights into the critical issues affecting the city’s residents.
At the beginning of the briefing, Colonel Viñas recognized the gravity of the current crime situation and stressed the importance of joint efforts to curb the increasing crime rates alongside the 10 station commanding officers.
He called for swift and coordinated measures to ensure the safety of the people.
Col. Viñas laid out the COCPO’s strategy to address these urgent issues, affirming their commitment to securing the well-being and protection of Cagayan’s citizens.
The plans include a series of actions intended to bring peace and order back to the community.
He pointed out the necessity of initiating targeted patrols and deploying additional officers to high-crime zones.
These steps aim to deter criminal acts and bolster police visibility in the areas most affected by theft and shootings, thereby reassuring the public.
Viñas also shed light on the underlying factors contributing to the rise in theft and shooting cases.
He emphasized the role of the community in reporting any suspicious activities and revealed that ongoing investigations are probing potential ties between criminal networks.
Col. Viñas called on residents to be vigilant, secure their homes, and remain alert in public spaces.
He cautioned against sharing information on social media that could incite panic or provide opportunities for criminals in Cagayan de Oro City.
He also highlighted the significance of neighborhood watch programs and encouraged the public to collaborate with law enforcement to help make the city a safer place for everyone.
The involvement of citizens is crucial in the fight against crime, according to the him.
Lt. Col. Viñas expressed his gratitude to the media for their role in disseminating information and elevating public consciousness regarding these issues.
He reiterated the COCPO’s resolve to maintain open communication with the community and promised regular updates on the progress of the initiatives aimed at combating crime in Cagayan.
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