A motorcycle rider stops for a refill at a gasoline station along EDSA in Quezon City on February 26, 2022. Gasoline prices which already increased for 8 straight weeks recently are expected to rise further amid the escalating conflict between Ukraine and Russia. George Calvelo, ABS-CBN News/File
MANILA — Criminals posing as delivery and motorcycle taxi riders are now in the crosshairs of the Philippine National Police (PNP) as authorities brace for a rise in street crimes during the holiday rush.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. ordered police commanders to intensify the crackdown on suspects using rider uniforms, delivery boxes and other motorcycle delivery gear to blend into crowded communities and carry out robberies and other crimes.
“We are intensifying our crackdown against criminals posing as legitimate delivery and motorcycle taxi riders to commit robberies, hold-ups, and other street crimes,” Nartatez said in a statement.
The warning also comes after a recent ambush involving a woman, where one of the suspects was reportedly wearing a uniform associated with a ride-hailing app.
Police said the use of rider uniforms can allow suspects to move around busy areas without immediately raising suspicion.
Nartatez said street and petty crimes tend to increase as the holiday season draws near, particularly in malls, markets, transport terminals and other places of convergence.
He ordered police units to boost visibility and focus on areas vulnerable to snatching, pickpocketing, salisi and hold-ups.
“Street and petty crimes tend to increase as the holiday season approaches, and criminal elements continue to evolve their modus operandi to carry out their illicit activities. The PNP will always be one step ahead of these criminals,” Nartatez said.
The PNP will also coordinate with ride-hailing companies and riders’ groups to strengthen safeguards against the unauthorized use of uniforms, delivery boxes and other identifying gear.
Nartatez said the crackdown is also intended to protect legitimate riders whose uniforms and equipment could be exploited by criminals.
“Our goal is not only to protect the public and communities, but also the integrity and dignity of legitimate delivery and motorcycle taxi riders who are on the streets every day to earn an honest living,” he added.
The PNP urged the public to immediately report suspicious individuals posing as delivery or motorcycle taxi riders.