Marbil orders intensified crackdown vs high-value criminals, wanted persons

PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil has ordered an intensified crackdown against high-value criminals and wanted individuals nationwide.

“Our paramount objective is the safety and security of every Filipino family and community,” Marbil said in a statement, referring to his directive issued to police units.

“By apprehending these criminals, we are making significant strides in ensuring that our citizens can live without fear and in peace,” Marbil added.

The PNP’s Public Information Office (PIO) said Marbil’s directive is “part of a broader campaign to enhance national security and ensure a safer environment for all citizens.”

It said Marbil’s order highlights the PNP’s “steadfast commitment” to ensuring peace and order in the country, especially with the elections set next year.

Marbil commended the PNP Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), under Maj. Gen. Leo Francisco, for its “exemplary performance” in the campaign against wanted criminals.

Data from the PNP showed the CIDG carried out 6,259 operations from January 1 to July 15 this year, leading to the arrest of 6,250 wanted individuals.

Marbil emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of policemen in the conduct of operations, noting that 16 policemen died and 40 others were injured in the line of duty this year.

“We honor the bravery and commitment of our men and women in uniform who risk their lives daily. Their dedication to their sworn duty to serve and protect is truly admirable,” said Marbil.

Marbil had mentioned “expanding our ability to uphold the law, maintain order and fight against local and transnational crimes” as among his thrusts when he assumed as the chief of the PNP last April 1.

“To this end, we commit to utilizing the best and innovative practices in law enforcement,” Marbil said in his inaugural speech.