Police set up checkpoints to curb taxi holdups, abductions

MANILA, Philippines – Police checkpoints specifically for taxis and commuter vans ‎have been set up on roads in Metro Manila due to the recent spate of crimes involving cabbie robbers and van-riding abductors.

‎Based on the orders of Deputy Director General Marcelo Garbo Jr., police officers will inspect public vans and taxis from morning until afternoon.

In a statement, Interior Secretary Manuel Roxas II said the directive was prompted by reports of alleged attempts to abduct children on the streets in Quiapo, Manila by men on board a white van.

The owner of the “van-for-rent” that was used in the alleged abduction has already surrendered the vehicle to the Manila Police District, but the suspects remain at large.

Also, there were reports of unscrupulous taxi drivers who spray sleep-inducing chemicals to make female passengers drowsy, thus, making them easier to rob or abduct.

Several cases of robbery involving cab drivers have been reported to the police‎. Most recent was in Mandaluyong City when a taxi driver shot in the arm his female passenger who refused to give her valuables.

But while National Capital Region Police Office personnel are conducting the inspection, Garbo reminded them to be courteous when approaching drivers as well as passengers to prevent unnecessary panic.