Police fielding men to secure ATMs during holidays

CEBU, Philippines -  The Cebu City Police Office is set to deploy security personnel in areas where automated teller machines (ATM) are located in anticipation of the public who will intend to withdraw money during holidays.

CCPO deputy director for administration, Supt. Arnel Banzon, said since banks are closed on Holy Thursday until Black Saturday, it is expected that the public shall take out money through ATMs.

Banzon said station commanders were directed to assign beat patrols specifically in areas where there are ATMs.

He said though they have noted lesser crime volume during Holy Week, it is better to prepare and ensure the security of the public at all times.

Meanwhile, Sr. Supt. Edward Carranza, chief of staff of the Police Regional Office-7 Regional Directorial Staff, said they plan to come up with a task force for Metro Cebu to address criminalities.

They have coordinated with the Cebu Bankers Club who will be one of their partners in organizing the task force to address crime occurrences especially bank robberies.

He said the task force will enable the police with easier communication and coordination with banks when lawless elements strike.

Carranza said they already got the assurance from the CBC to continuously inform their security personnel on staying alert for possible crimes.

They aim to strengthen the police force with the task force by addressing bank robberies with quicker response.

Carranza also said the task force shall suggest adjacent banks to support the bank which is perpetrated by lawless elements in case of bank robberies.

Instead of just informing the police force during robbery alarm, he said the task force shall encourage all member banks to be alerted to prevent the crime from happening again.

Although they do not have the name yet for the task force, Carranza said they shall carefully study and lay-out the plan which will be then submitted to the PRO-7 Director, Chief Supt. Danilo Constantino, for approval. (FREEMAN)