Widespread pickpocketing, sexual harassment happening in MRT – Tulfo

Widespread pickpocketing, sexual harassment happening in MRT – Tulfo

MANILA, Philippines — Senator Raffy Tulfo has urged the Philippine National Police (PNP) to deploy personnel at all Metro Rail Transit (MRT) stations.

The request comes, following reports of widespread pickpocketing, sexual harassment and other crimes taking place in these places.

Tulfo made the call in a letter addressed to the National Capital Region Police Office dated July 1, he said in a press release on Tuesday.

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In the letter, Tulfo mentioned that one of the police’ main responsibilities should be to board the trains and respond more effectively to crimes and emergencies.

The senator chairs the Senate committee on public services.

He added police officers must be “well-trained in spotting and dealing with pickpockets and all forms of petty crimes to ensure protection of riding public.”

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For special training, Tulfo suggested the PNP must utilize the knowledge of former criminals who have been arrested to better determine how they act before, during and after a crime is committed.

The senator further recommended publicizing the photos of suspects for transparency.

Tulfo said he will seek a hearing on this matter after the Senate recess in July.