Carjackings down as cops patrol streets

The increased presence of policemen from the Highway Patrol Group (HPG) has contributed to a decrease in car-jacking incidents.

According to HPG director Chief Supt. Arnold Gunnacao, a total of 394 suspects were arrested in 2015 while 528 vehicles were recovered.

“The HPG’s presence on the streets has a big impact because car thieves know that we are there so they cannot just steal vehicles. That is a preventive measure—police visibility,” Gunnacao said during the HPG’s anniversary on Thursday.

The HPG has taken the lead in managing traffic flow on Edsa since last year upon the instruction of President Aquino.

Gunnacao noted that since the implementation of the “no-contact” apprehension policy of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority on April 15, fewer vehicles have been using Edsa.

He theorized that some motorists may be avoiding the busy thoroughfare to avoid being apprehended for a traffic violation through the MMDA’s closed circuit television cameras.

The HPG’s data showed that of the 528 vehicles recovered in 2015, 246 were automobiles while 282 were motorcycles.

Gunnacao added that 408 vehicles comprising of 218 automobiles and 190 motorcycles were returned to their owners.