Public urged: Report cheap motorbikes

CEBU, Philippines - The Cebu City Police Office has urged the public to report to the authorities if they happen to purchase motorcycles at a cheaper price but without any proper documents.

City Intelligence Branch chief, Supt. Romeo Santander, made the appeal following the warning issued by Highway Patrol Group-7 on the increasing number of carnapped motorcycles in Cebu. HPG-7 officials said motorcycle engines are easily sold and used for pumpboats.

Santander said that some carnapped motorcycles are cannibalized and are brought out of Cebu by parts through pumpboats. Some are brought to Bohol through Pasil port.

He said they received information about it late last year but have not gathered strong evidence since it lacks coordination from concerned agencies.

He said they will coordinate with the barangay officials and police stations to verify reports on the matter. HPG-7 also said it will coordinate with the Regional Maritime Unit-7 to check on the report.

“It’s just a matter of coordination,” Santander said.

He added that they are now eyeing to check the pumpboats before they leave to avoid the proliferation of carnapped vehicles.

“Before molarga, i-inspect ang pumpboat. I-validate nato if didto gyud gitagoan sa makina sa pumpboat,” he said.

While some motorcycle engines are being used for pumpboats, other motorcycle parts are assembled and refurbished and sold at cheaper prices in Bohol.

Santander reminded the public to be vigilant if they have purchased a motorcycle from someone who could not present proper documents.

“Mahibaw-an ninyo kun moingon nga way papeles, there’s something wrong with that so please (feel) free to call us,” he said.

Motorcycle owners are also advised to be careful. Putting a padlock in the sprockets and in the handlebars is also recommended. — (FREEMAN)