Police: Stop spreading hoax terror threats

LAWMEN ROAM ‘LAWLESS’ LAND An officer manning a checkpoint on E. Rodriguez Avenue, Quezon City, orders a motorcyclist to pull over for an inspection. The police have been put on full alert after President Duterte declared a “state of lawless violence” in the wake of the Sept. 2 Davao City bombing. RICHARD REYES

The Metro Manila police have asked the public to refrain from spreading hoax terror threats, especially after a deadly explosion happened in Davao City, killing 14 people and hurting 71 others on Friday.

Police received four bomb threats in different areas in Metro Manila on Monday alone. Earlier Tuesday, another bomb scare triggered panic at the Makati City Hall. All turned out to be hoaxes.

Chief Supt. Oscar Albayalde, National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) chief, expressed concern over the “unnecessary fear” the fake bomb threats are causing the people.

“We appeal to the public not to make bomb threats a joke not only because it is against the law but also because it creates unnecessary fear to our people,” Albayalde said.

Presidential Decree 1727 penalizes individuals who will be found spreading bomb threats.

Nevertheless, all bomb threats should still be reported to the police, Albayalde reiterated.

“All bomb threats, whether it’s a hoax or not, will not be taken for granted. It should be immediately reported to the police,” he said.

The NCRPO chief also called on the public to remain calm but vigilant at the same time.
“If they see any suspicious (object) in the area, they should not touch it. (Leave) the area and let our explosives ordnance division personnel check the said item,” he said. TVJ/rga

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