Crime rate in Davao City has dropped by 36 percent in the first quarter of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023, the Davao City Police Office (DCPO) said.

From January to March 15, a total of 46 incidents under eight focus crimes were recorded, lower than the 72 cases recorded in 2023.

The eight focus crimes are rape, murder, homicide, robbery, theft, physical injury, carnapping, and motorcycle theft.

According to the City Information Office, the city’s peace and order indicator also improved. The total number of index and non-index crimes recorded in nearly first three month of 2024 is 608, which is 11 percent lower than the 682 cases logged in 2023, DCPO added.

Police attributed the decrease in crime incidents to its strict implementation of “Patrol Rehiyon Onse,” crime prevention initiatives, and anti-criminality programs.

CHECKPOINTS

Meanwhile, at least 66 people were apprehended at checkpoints in the city also in the first quarter of 2024.

The Task Force Davao apprehended 54 people transporting suspected shabu and marijuana worth more than P2.5 million. The group also apprehended eight people for illegal possession of firearms and ammunition. 

Two people were arrested for violation of the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act.

Authorities also apprehended an individual for allegedly transporting 6,000 reams of alleged smuggled cigarettes worth around P3 million and another person was arrested for cracking a bomb joke.

The individuals arrested were turned over to the Davao City Police Office (DCPO) for legal action. 

Police said most of those arrested are not from Davao City. 

“Normally, ang na-apprehend naman natin are from other areas, not from Davao City, iilan lang yung mga from Davao City, so meaning ang drugs is galing sa labas papasok sa loob, yun yung nangyayari. Immediately kasi tinuturn over natin sa Davao City Police Office for legal action kasi sila kasi yung nagpafile ng kaso, and I believe all cases has been filed promptly sa proper court,” Task Force Davao Commander, Colonel Darren Comia, was quoted as saying.

The task force had strengthened nine entry points of the city to ensure public safety and urged locals and visitors to cooperate with the safety and security protocols implemented at checkpoints and around the city.