PNP probes 'mishandling' of impounded vehicles

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine National Police has started investigating reports some of its personnel are keeping impounded vehicles in its headquarters in Camp Crame instead of the Land Transportation Office (LTO). PNP chief Director General Jesus Verzosa has also issued guidelines to police personnel detailed or deputized by the LTO to handle seized vehicles. "Reports received by the PNP are now being investigated by the concerned directorates. Rest assured that we will take the necessary actions against our personnel if they are proven to have violated the proper procedures," Verzosa said in an article on the PNP website. www.pnp.gov.ph Verzosa's directive prohibits the use of camp premises as an impounding area except when the vehicle is involved in car theft, or used as evidence in crime. PNP personnel are not also allowed to keep confiscated driver's licenses and plate numbers of vehicles. All confiscated vehicles and documents shall be turned over to the LTO immediately following the operations, the PNP said. PNP spokesman Chief Superintendent Nicanor Bartolome said these guidelines are meant to improve the services of the PNP as well as reinforce the PNP's partnership with the LTO. "The issuance of these guidelines is intended to address some of the problems that some of our police personnel may encounter. In that regard, any confusion or misunderstanding will be avoided because proper proceudres have been set," Bartolome said. - GMANews.TV