Purisima to PNP officials: Don’t alter crime statistics

MANILA, Philippines - Incoming Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Deputy Director General Alan Purisima warned police officials Sunday that they will suffer severe sanctions if they are caught altering crime statistics in their respective areas of jurisdiction.

“I would like to do away with these practice of some police officials who are altering their reports to hide the true state of criminality in their jurisdictions just to make them appear ‘pogi (handsome)’ to their superiors and political benefactors,” said Purisima, who is slated to replace resigned PNP chief Director General Nicanor Bartolome today.

Purisima wanted police officials to report the real state of crime in their areas so the PNP’s high command would initiate measures to properly address them.

He noted that several police officials are reporting low crime figures in their area of responsibility just to gain attention of Malacañang officials and other government leaders.

There are also police officials who are keeping two police blotters to hide major crimes, he said.

Purisima said those found violating his directive would be meted administrative charges like neglect of duty or a reprimand for the first offense.

For the second offense, police officials will be suspended and demoted, while repeat offenders will be dismissed from service, he said.

Meanwhile, the Abono party-list group lauded Purisima’s appointment.

Abono chairman Rosendo So said Purisima was able to neutralize kidnap syndicates during his term as head of the Police Anti-Crime and Emergency Response.