DOJ continues monitoring online platforms to track, identify online groomers

The Department of Justice (DOJ) continue to monitor online platforms and group chats as it dig deeper into the possible links between grooming and three recent school shooting incidents in the country.

This was according to Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida as he revealed that authorities have successfully thwarted several potential violent incidents.

Vida said there are many successful operations conducted by authorities to prevent potential problems that may occur.

But the justice chief declined to provide more details t avoid compromising ongoing follow up operations.

Reports had been received by authorities, Vida said of individuals announcing their intentions before the incidents, hence, giving law enforcement an opportunity to intervene.

“We have the chance to prevent the incident and it prove to be successful,” Vida said.

Vida cited the three incidents were the shooting in Tacloban City, the incident at Ateneo de Zamboanga University, and the 18 Sept. shooting at Banga National High School in South Cotabato.

The justice chief vowed to release a more accurate count of the successful operations after consolidating reports from the government agencies involved.

On the other hand, Assistant Secretary Michelle Anne Lapuz said the investigation remains active and that disclosing details could affect police operations.

Authorities are examining whether online grooming played a role in the school shootings.

Vida said grooming involves manipulating or influencing individuals through online interactions and may include encouraging young adults or minors to engage in violent acts, thus he urged parents and the public to remain alert and work with authorities to prevent further incidents