PNP Chief Directs Full Investigation into Alleged Death Threat Against Cebu Governor
Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., the chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), has ordered a comprehensive investigation into an alleged death threat targeting Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro. The directive comes following the governor's public disclosure about a reported P2.5-million bounty placed on her life, prompting immediate security enhancements across Central Visayas.
Heightened Security Measures and Intelligence Operations
Nartatez has instructed police units in the region, specifically the Police Regional Office-7 (PRO-7) and the Cebu Police Provincial Office, to intensify intelligence monitoring and security operations. "We have already mobilized our regional personnel not only to step up the security measures but also to identify and pursue those behind this threat," the PNP chief stated emphatically.
Governor Baricuatro recently revealed that she is facing a serious security risk, citing intelligence information suggesting a hired gunman from Mindanao had been allegedly tasked to carry out an attack, reportedly outside Cebu province. While authorities are still verifying these claims, the PNP has taken proactive steps to ensure her safety.
Additional Security Deployment for Governor Baricuatro
In response to the threat, the PNP has significantly bolstered the governor's security detail. During a press conference, PNP Public Information Office chief BGen. Randulf Tuaño explained that the originally allowed security for Governor Baricuatro was just two personnel. However, based on Nartatez's directive, two teams of seven additional police security aides have been deployed.
"At any given day, she has an additional seven security personnel, and the following day when they rotate, there are still another seven additional personnel," Tuaño clarified, ensuring round-the-clock protection. This tactical deployment aims to prevent any possible breach in the governor's security while the investigation unfolds.
PNP's Firm Stance Against Threats to Public Officials
BGen. Tuaño reiterated the PNP's strong condemnation of any threats against individuals, particularly elected government officials. The police force remains committed to safeguarding public servants and maintaining peace and order in the region. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities working diligently to verify the intelligence reports and identify the perpetrators behind the alleged bounty.
As the situation develops, residents of Cebu and Central Visayas are urged to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement agencies. The PNP assures the public that all necessary measures are being taken to address this security concern promptly and effectively.
