FORMER Sen. Panfilo Lacson urged the PNP to show results in solving kidnap-for-ransom cases as he recalled that he, himself, had to climb a water tank to triangulate the kidnappers’ location during his time in the police force.
“Our police should show results. Otherwise, future victims will be more afraid, thinking about what happened to the last victim. The fear factor is very important, as is the trust of the community and potential victims in our authorities,” the former PNP chief, who is eyeing a Senate return under the administration’s Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas ticket, told Bilyonaryo News Channel.
Lacson, who solved several KFR cases as head of the then Presidential Anti-Crime Commission Task Force Habagat, also warned that unless authorities show results soon, kidnappers would be encouraged to continue their act, exploiting victims’ fear of reporting or cooperating with authorities.
He underscored the importance of integrity and consistency in crime fighting, saying “authorities must not make exceptions to the rule when doing their jobs, especially now that they have better technical equipment to deal with kidnappers.”
“During my time, we had to climb high trees or water tanks – I myself had to climb a water tank to triangulate the kidnappers’ location. Our modern counterparts are better equipped today, but if they don’t put that equipment to good use, nothing will happen,” he said.
Lacson also warned that other countries may come up with travel advice for their citizens cautioning against kidnappings, pointing out that Filipino-Chinese were again the recent victims of KFR incidents.
He said the PNP should first ensure continuity in the Anti-Kidnapping Group (AKG) by assigning an officer with enough experience in anti-crime activities as head, then assigning someone as the understudy who can replace the leader upon promotion or reassignment.
The former senator said the PNP must also act against “rogue” members by making its Internal Affairs Service (IAS) independent, citing reports that some former and active policemen act as unauthorized bodyguards for offshore gaming operators who are also involved in kidnapping to force victims to pay casino debts.
Lacson also advised the PNP to practice “secrecy discipline” and “not telegraph information to the public, as this may tip off the kidnappers.
“Once you arrest all those involved, you can hold a press conference to show the PNP’s achievement and to gain public trust. But before the solution, refrain from making anything public lest you tip off the kidnappers, too,” he said.
