QC crime rate drops on faster response

The Quezon City Police District (QCPD) reported a notable decline in eight major crimes in the city in January, citing improved police response and stronger community cooperation.

In a report released Saturday, P/Brig. Gen. Randy Glenn Silvio said cases of murder, homicide, physical injury, rape, robbery, theft, car theft, and motorcycle theft dropped to a combined total of 129 incidents from 1 to 31 January, compared with 200 cases recorded during the same period last year — a decrease of 71 cases.

Silvio said the reduction was accompanied by an improvement in Crime Solution Efficiency (CSE), which rose to 80.45 percent.

“I am pleased to share these accomplishments with our QCitizens. Through our continuous anti-criminality efforts, such as Warrant Day operations and District Oplan Bulabog/Galugad, and with the strong cooperation of the public, we assure round-the-clock safety in Quezon City,” Silvio said.

The QCPD chief assured residents that police would continue strict law enforcement to ensure public safety and quality service.

Data from the report showed that theft cases posted the biggest drop, declining from 102 incidents last year to 68 this January. Motorcycle theft cases also fell by 56 percent during the period.

Meanwhile, police arrested an armed resident of Barangay Loyola Heights after he allegedly tried to intimidate a neighbor who had earlier accused him of internet hacking.

Silvio confirmed the arrest of the suspect, identified by police as alias “Alexander,” 64.

According to investigators, the suspect fired shots from a .45-caliber pistol outside his home in Loyola Heights and later ignited a butane torch near the victim’s Ford EcoSport at around 8:15 p.m.

The suspect then fled the area aboard a red Honda Civic, prompting residents to report the incident to Anonas Police Station 9 through the Quezon City 122 Helpline.

Police personnel from Station 9, the QCPD Special Weapons and Tactics team, and Talipapa Police Station 3 launched a hot pursuit operation. The suspect was arrested at around 11:40 p.m. in front of Baesa Town Center in Quezon City.

Authorities recovered the suspect’s firearm, five magazines containing 39 rounds of live ammunition, P33,000 in cash, a pocket knife, and other personal items.

The suspect faces charges for violations of Republic Act 11926, or the law against willful and indiscriminate discharge of firearms, the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act, and malicious mischief.