Ben Madilynn
THE Davao City Police Office (DCPO) quickly addressed a circulating message on social media that warned vehicle owners about alleged police misconduct during checkpoint inspections.
DCPO Spokesperson Police Captain Hazel Tuazon clarified that all checkpoints are conducted through “plain view” inspections, and it is not part of their protocol to open vehicle trunks.
She urged those spreading the message to provide evidence to support the claims.
“Kanang gahimo ani nga message mag-attached siya og evidence para klaro nga tinuod ug dili bakak ang iyang mga allegations sa DCPO personnel (Those making these allegations should provide evidence to prove the truth of their statements),” Tuazon said. She emphasized that, without evidence, the claims are simply hearsay.
Tuazon also encouraged the public to file a blotter report at the nearest police station if they encounter such incidents.
“Giawhag namo ang tanan nga kung naay bati nga makita or gihimo ang DCPO personnels puwede ra kaayo sila magpa-blotter para matagaan og aksiyon ug matagaan og leksiyon kung kinsa man ang gaabuso sa katawhan para dili madamay ang tanan (“Anyone who experiences inappropriate actions by DCPO personnel can report it, and we will take action against those abusing their authority),” she stated.
The message, which circulated on Messenger last week, claimed that officers would stop vehicles, open trunks, and plant suspicious items, such as shabu, in the back of the vehicle. Vehicle owners were warned to stay alert.
The DCPO urged netizens to refrain from spreading unverified messages to prevent harm to the police force’s reputation, as they continue to safeguard the public. JPC
