Cops struggle to trace dummy accounts behind school threats

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — The Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office has acknowledged the difficulty of tracking down people behind dummy accounts used to spread online threats that alarm the public, particularly school communities.

Despite the challenge, Police Capt. Stephen Polinar, NOrPPO spokesperson, said all reported threats are being taken seriously and properly addressed.

Polinar said police immediately coordinate with school administrators to ensure the safety of learners and teachers.

He said dummy accounts cannot be easily traced because identifying information, such as IP records, is not readily available to investigators.

“However, we’re doing our best to track them down in coordination with the Department of Education (DepEd) and Anti-Cybercrime Unit,” Polinar added.

The latest alleged school threat was reported in Guihulngan City on Monday, prompting the suspension of classes at Guihulngan National High School.

In a statement, the Guihulngan City Police Station said it was closely monitoring the alleged online threat, although specific details were not disclosed.

Police coordinated with DepEd-Guihulngan and school authorities to assess the information and strengthen security measures.

An increased police presence is being maintained around schools to ensure the safety of learners, teachers and personnel.

The public was urged to remain calm, avoid spreading unverified information and report any suspicious activity to authorities.

Police said the measures support continuing efforts to strengthen school safety and emergency preparedness.

The school said in an advisory that classes at all levels would resume Tuesday.

Stricter security measures will be implemented for the safety and security of students and school personnel.

Vehicles of parents, guardians and other individuals dropping off students will not be allowed to enter the school premises.

Students will instead be dropped off at a designated area outside the school.

The school asked for everyone’s cooperation, patience and understanding.

The incident came three days after a school in La Libertad, Negros Oriental, also reported an alleged threat that prompted the suspension of classes Friday.