PNP targets street gangs over child recruitment, initiation theft

The Philippine National Police (PNP) launched an intensified intelligence and monitoring campaign Tuesday to dismantle street gangs recruiting minors into organized crime, specifically targeting a youth group accused of forcing teenagers into shoplifting.

PNP chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the crackdown aligns with directives from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla to eliminate community-based criminal networks before they expand in residential areas.

Remulla previously identified “True Brown Style,” a group primarily composed of 18- to 20-year-olds, as a key target.

Authorities allege the group grooms children as young as 14 and 15, requiring them to commit theft at local convenience stores as part of initiation rites.

“We must detect recruitment early, coordinate with schools and local authorities, and take lawful action before these groups become deeply rooted in our communities,” Nartatez said in a statement.

He also stressed that law enforcement priorities focus on protecting vulnerable children from exploitation while prosecuting organizers.

The police action comes as the national government heightens campus security measures following recent fatal violence involving students in Tacloban, Zamboanga and South Cotabato.

Marcos ordered police and education officials to investigate how minors involved in those incidents obtained firearms and smuggled them onto school grounds.

Nartatez assured the public that police units are increasing patrols and coordinating with school administrators and barangay officials to intervene early and secure school perimeters nationwide.