Manila: The Philippine National Police-Highway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG) has intensified its nationwide crackdown on carnapping and traffic violations, leading to the issuance of over 15,000 traffic violation tickets and the seizure of 1,500 motorcycles during a weeklong operation from July 27 to August 3.
According to Philippines News Agency, HPG Director Brig. Gen. William Segun announced that HPG units across the country were responsible for the arrest of seven individuals wanted for carnapping, the recovery of 25 stolen motor vehicles and nine stolen motorcycles, and the impounding of 293 motor vehicles along with 1,503 motorcycles. These results were achieved through the concerted efforts of the Regional Highway Patrol Units (RHPUs) and the Special Operations Division (SOD), which conducted various operations, checkpoints, and enforcement activities nationwide.
The RPHU Calabarzon (4A) emerged as a leader among the units, with 56 impounded motor vehicles and 593 motorcycles, in addition to eight recovered stolen vehicles. Meanwhile, the RHPU National Capital Region (NCR) issued the highest number of traffic violation tickets at 1,959, followed by RHPU 4A with 1,678 and RHPU 12 with 1,596.
Furthermore, the operations led to the execution of 11 search warrants and the issuance of 1,477 tickets for violations of Presidential Decree 96, which pertains to the unauthorized use of sirens and blinkers. There were also 248 violations of Article 179 of the Revised Penal Code, which penalizes the unauthorized use of uniforms, insignias, or dress related to government offices or officials.
Overall, a total of 15,479 traffic violation tickets were issued across the nation. The campaign also resulted in six arrests under RA 10883, known as the New Anti-Carnapping Law.
Brig. Gen. Segun emphasized the significance of continued enforcement, stating, "There is no room on our roads for abusive motorists and criminals who use vehicles as tools in their illegal activities. Through these intensified operations, we are sending a clear message: the PNP-HPG is watching, and we will not hesitate to act. The safety of every law-abiding citizen on the road is our top priority, and we will continue to uphold that duty with integrity and determination."
He also expressed his gratitude to the diligent personnel of the HPG nationwide and reaffirmed the group's dedication to safeguarding Filipino motorists by combating vehicle-related crimes and maintaining order on public roads.
