BCPO debunks kidnapping rumors; mayor eyes action vs disinformation

By Glazyl Y. Masculino

BACOLOD CITY – The Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) has dismissed recent social media reports alleging robbery and kidnapping attempts in various areas of the city.

On Thursday night, viral posts on Facebook claimed that a black van with no license plate was abducting students in different locations here. However, police efforts to contact the original poster were unsuccessful as the individual had already deactivated their social media account.

The BCPO acknowledged the concern these reports generated among residents but clarified that no substantial evidence supports these claims.

“After thorough investigation and verification, our findings, coordinated with relevant authorities, reveal that these reports are largely unsubstantiated or based on misinformation,” said Police Lieutenant Colonel Bonifacio Ancajas Jr., public information officer of BCPO, in a statement.

Ancajas emphasized that misinformation, particularly when spread through social media, can escalate quickly and create unnecessary fear, disrupting the peace and order in the city.

The BCPO urged the public to refrain from spreading unverified information that could cause undue alarm. Police Colonel Joeresty Coronica, BCPO officer-in-charge, advised the public to remain calm, vigilant, and report any suspicious incidents to the nearest police station.

“We encourage everyone to report any suspicious activities directly to the nearest police station or through our official communication channels. This allows us to respond swiftly and appropriately to any genuine threats,” Coronica said.

The BCPO has increased patrols and visibility in key areas to reassure the public of their commitment to maintaining peace and order.

“Rest assured that the BCPO is dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of all Bacolod City residents,” Coronica added.

Meanwhile, Mayor Alfredo “Albee” Benitez, in a media interview yesterday, stated that he has asked legal and enforcement agencies to investigate the origins of this misinformation.

Benitez said he became aware of photos posted online with malicious taglines and captions.

“We’ll have the legal team study whether charges can be filed against those spreading this kind of fake news,” he added.

The mayor is awaiting recommendations as they explore ways to prevent similar incidents. He believes that “fake news” peddlers should be penalized, akin to those who spread bomb threat hoaxes.

Benitez also appealed to the public to stop spreading false information to avoid creating panic and alarm.

The mayor has called on the BCPO to intensify police presence, especially in public areas.

He noted that spreading such falsehoods is counterproductive and could cause unnecessary harm.

Benitez urged parents to closely monitor their children, especially when they are going to school and are away from home. He warned that the opening of classes might present opportunities for those with ill intentions to target students.

He also warned criminals not to operate in Bacolod. “We will not stop until the law catches you,” he said.

The mayor urged school authorities to prioritize student safety.

“Inform us if your schools need security personnel,” Benitez said, encouraging schools to install closed-circuit television (CCTV) systems as part of their security protocols.

He asked everyone to stay vigilant against those attempting to exploit children, closely monitor their whereabouts, ensure they return home on time, and report suspicious incidents to the police or barangay so that immediate action can be taken.