OPLAN TAMBAY NETS 139 PERSONS

Those nabbed were minors, violators of the anti-smoking law, and those who were not wearing shirts

A total of 139 individuals were rounded up during the Oplan Tambay or the drive against loiterers in Davao City last September 29 as part of the local police’s crime prevention campaign.

Police Regional Office (PRO) 11 spokesperson Police Chief Inspector Milgrace Driz said yesterday that authorities launched the operation to enforce the laws and local ordinances of the city.

Of this number, a total of 57 were minors who were rescued after violating the curfew ordinance; 11 for not wearing shirts or half-naked; and 71 for smoking in public places. This operation was in response to the directive of the President in the campaign against bystanders who are deemed to be a “potential trouble to the public.”

Meanwhile, PRO 11 Regional Director Police Chief Superintendent Marcelo C.

Morales said loiterers are arrested due to violations of existing local laws or city ordinances and assured that their rights and privileges were protected, brushing aside apprehensions on possible human rights violations.

"The police will continue to intensify its anti-criminality and anti-terrorism operations to safeguard the people and ensure the maintenance of peace and order in the region," Morales said.

Meanwhile, in the span of 24 hours, there were also a total of 72 persons apprehended for violating RA 4136 or Land Transportation and Traffic Code during the conduct of checkpoint while two motorcycles were impounded.