Focus crimes in C. Luzon down nearly 16%

CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga – Police Regional Office in Central Luzon (PRO-3) reported a 15.82-percent reduction in focus crimes from June 20 to Aug. 15.

In a news release over the weekend, PRO-3 said 495 focus crimes were recorded during the period, down from 588 in the same period last year.

Physical injury cases saw a 46.3-percent decline, while rape cases dropped by 26.04 percent, murder cases by 31.91 percent, and motor vehicle carnapping by 50 percent.

Aurora recorded a 64.29-percent decrease in focus crimes, followed by Zambales at 44.44 percent and Tarlac at 35.56 percent.

PRO-3 also reported notable gains in law enforcement operations. A total of 1,326 wanted persons were arrested, including 319 classified as most wanted and 1,007 as other wanted persons.

Police operations also recovered 260 loose firearms, strengthening efforts to ensure community safety.

PRO-3 chief Brig. Gen. Ponce Rogelio Peñones Jr. attributed the sustained downtrend in focus crimes to intensified police visibility, stronger community engagement and timely crime prevention strategies.

"These numbers reflect the hard work, discipline and dedication of our men and women on the ground. Guided by the leadership of PNP chief Gen. (Nicolas) Torre III, we will continue to work closely with the community and all stakeholders to sustain this downtrend and address emerging crime concerns," Peñones said.

He said proactive operations, intelligence-driven policing and closer partnership with local communities remain key pillars of PRO-3's peace and order strategy. (PNA)

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