PNP to improve visibility to prevent Denver-like violence

Manila, Philippines -  Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Nicanor Bartolome ordered all police commanders to improve police visibility to prevent violence similar to the bloody attack in a theater in Colorado during the opening of the Batman movie "The Dark Knight Rises."

Bartolome said the Colorado incident showed that crimes really do happen even in a country with enough resources and equipment.

He said he has directed all police commanders to further improve deployment in crowded areas since police visibility has been proven to be a crime deterrent.

"We have been trying to strengthen police visibility and partnership with other agencies," the PNP chief added.

He noted that PNP officials, particularly the Civil Security Group (CSG), often meet with security agencies and their security guards to help the police maximize security in private establishments.

"We need the coordination and cooperation of private sectors and stakeholders in securing the people," Bartolome said.

Twelve moviegoers were killed and over 30 others were wounded after a man, wearing a gas mask, lobbed tear gas in a theater in Colorado the other day.

Authorities have yet to establish the motive in the attack, which took place during a special midnight premier of the latest Batman movie.