Manila: A recent rash of crimes perpetrated by armed men dressed in police attire has forced law enforcers to adopt new uniforms.
In a statement, Philippine National Police (PNP) Director General Jesus Versoza said he has approved a new uniform for use by PNP personnel assigned to field patrol duties.
Introduction today
The new patrol uniform comprises a personalised shirt patented as official PNP work attire. The name and badge number of the person to whom the uniform is issued is embroidered in the fabric as a security measure.
The new patrol uniform will be introduced to the public by the National Capital Region Police office during a simple launch ceremony today in suburban Quezon City. "There had been cases where criminal elements actually disguise themselves as policemen as cover for their criminal activities," PNP Spokesman, Chief Superintendent Nicanor Bartolome said.
There had been incidents in the past where criminals posing as policemen would carry out criminal activities, but lately, these incidents have been increasing in frequency and boldness. Last Friday, legitimate police officers with the help of navy intelligence agents, swooped down on a warehouse where a group of notorious syndicate members are about to stage a heist.
Disguise
The notorious Waray-Waray and Ozamis Group, neutralised by the PNP in an encounter in Parañaque City last week, reportedly approached targets disguised as police officers responding to a crime.
As well as imposing strict regulations on the use of police uniforms, the PNP is also going after unauthorised distributors and retailers of official PNP and military uniforms.
Bartolome said in some insurgency affected provinces, the communist New People's Army has been known to disguise as government troops to infiltrate town centres and government installations.
The new patrol uniform comprises a personalised shirt patented as official PNP work attire. The name and badge number to whom the uniform is issued is embroidered in the fabric as a security measure.
