PNP launches crime watch app

A mobile application designed to warn the public on crime hotspots in Metro Manila was formally launched at the Quezon City Police District on Tuesday.

Aside from information on crime-prone areas, the app is also being offered as a community-based tool for reporting and preventing crime.

A project of the Philippine National Police, the “Bantay Krimen” (Crime Watch) app and website underwent a successful live simulation before PNP chief Director General Ronald dela Rosa, National Capital Region Police Office chief Director Oscar Albayalde, QCPD director Senior Supt. Guillermo Lorenzo Eleazar and other QCPD officials.

The simulation involved police officers chasing a “robber,” which was monitored from the QCPD headquarters through GPS tracking and online maps.

While initially limited to PNP force multipliers, such as barangay officials, citizens may soon report crimes in real time using the app or through its website,  www.bantaykrimen.com.

The police can monitor and respond to these reports through a crime database. The nearest police stations and fire stations can also be reached through the app, which can be downloaded for free by Android users.

Similar technological initiatives have also been employed by the PNP, such as the e-Blotter and e-Subpoena systems. The Bantay Krimen is a joint project between the PNP and a team of developers from University of The Cordilleras in Baguio City. —JHESSET O. ENANO