The Davao City Police Office (DCPO) has ordered a manhunt on alleged motorcycle-riding men caning curfew violators with sticks, particularly in the areas of Sasa, Agdao, and Bucana.
DCPO director, Supt. Alexander Tagum directed the Sasa Police Station commander to conduct an investigation and identify the perpetrators.
This is not the first time men on motorcycles caned youths and teenagers.
They first surfaced in 2009 and earned the notoriety as the “Latigo Gang.” Although one or two reportedly used a whip, most carried bamboo sticks to strike their targets.
Capt. Nolan Tagsip, the DCPO spokesperson, said the police-military integrated patrol system is further enhanced, while the police auxiliary and community security units are tapped to serve as extra eyes and ears, to prevent similar incidents from occurring again.
“The other day we have received information that there was a riot in the Sasa area and one reported to the police (that he was whipped) while the investigation is ongoing,” he said in yesterday’s AFP-PNP press briefing held at The Royal Mandaya Hotel,
The spokesman said they’re looking into a possibility that there could be another group, aside from the resbak gang that killed a roof installer in Bucana.
“We are looking into the possibility that there are other members of the gang who could have hatred or wanted retaliation due to previous incidents,” he added.
Also, Tagsip said they continue to enforce city ordinances such as the curfew on minors, anti-smoking, liquor ban, and road-clearing operations, primarily during nighttime were petty crimes will most likely happen if not checked.
“The DCPO molds individuals and not destroy (them),” he said.
Meanwhile, the police will also strictly implement the curfew law for minors, which starts at 10 p.m. to 4 a.m.
“In light of this dilemma, there is, therefore, no speck of truth to the assertion that the PNP is anywhere involved in these series of incidents and we are doing what’s best for the general public,” the spokesman said.
On the other hand, Maj. Jason Baria, the spokesman of Police Regional Office XI, said they are focusing on minors who are involved in violent gangs.
“We are coordinating with the Department of Social and Welfare Development pertaining to the sanctions of the minors and family members, as well,” Baria said.
Brig. Gen. Marcelo Morales, director of Police Regional Office XI, has directed station commanders and personnel to intensify patrol activities in their respective areas of responsibility and strictly implement curfews.
“We have also to validate first if there are gangs who are involved in these activities as, based on our reports, mostly (involved) are minors below 18 years old and some are participated by those in the ages of 18, 19, and 20,” Baria said.
