The Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) warned the public on Wednesday, August 24, against claims that there are kidnappers in the city and other parts of the country victimizing children and teenagers.
Lt. Col. Sherlock Gabana, BCPO public information officer, said the “fake” messages spread through social media have caused alarm and confusion to the public.
The messages also state the type and color of the vehicles used by the alleged kidnapping group.
“The BCPO would like to inform the public once and again that the messages are not true, there is no reported kidnapping in Bacolod City,” Gabana said.
He further stressed that there is no kidnapping group operating in Bacolod.
Gabana also said that an investigation is being conducted to identify the people or group behind the spread of the false information.
“The BCPO sternly warns those spreading or circulating in any way false information that cause alarm to the public and disrupt the peace and order of the city. They will be held liable and appropriate charges will be filed against the identified perpetrators,” Gabana said.
Col. Thomas Joseph Martir, city police director, reminded the public to verify information or messages received and not to immediately believe what they see or read on the social media.
“For your concerns, you can call anytime of the day and night the BCPO hotlines for assistance and response. Bacolod City remains peaceful and orderly and your police officers are not letting their guards down against all forms of criminality,” he added.*