GenSan Cops Step Up Security Operations For ‘Undas’

General Santos City (PNA) — Police personnel here have stepped up their security operations in preparation for the observance of the All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day this weekend.

Supt. Michael Odejerte, city police office spokesperson, said all police units in the city are currently on full alert to ensure the smooth and peaceful holidays, which will begin on Saturday and could extend until Monday.

He said they will deploy police personnel starting Friday in nine local cemeteries and other public convergence within the city’s 26 barangays.

The official said they earlier increased their visibility on public transport terminals, shopping malls and city airport.

Odejerte said their operations will be concentrated mainly at the city’s two biggest cemeteries — the local government-owned General Santos City Memorial Park (formerly Uhaw public cemetery) in Barangay Fatima and the Forest Lake Memorial Park in Barangay Apopong.

He said they have established police assistance hubs in the two cemeteries, which already started to draw numerous visitors.

Inspection desks and frisking areas manned by police officers will be set up at the entry points of the two cemeteries, he said.

He said they have coordinated with the local government’s city traffic office for the proper handling of vehicular traffic in roads leading to the cemeteries.

Odejerte said they will strictly implement the ban on the bringing and drinking of liquor and other alcoholic beverages in cemeteries as set by their central office.

He said the other prohibitions are the holding of gambling sessions, carrying of gambling paraphernalia, carrying or possession of firearms and other deadly weapons, and the playing of loud music inside cemeteries.

“I’m urging everyone to follow these regulations and other policies set by the cemeteries,” he said.

Odejerte advised residents who will be going to the cemeteries this weekend to properly secure their houses and properties.

He also cautioned them against possible cases of petty crimes like theft in crowded areas in cemeteries.

“It’s important for everybody to be always on alert or vigilant. Rest assured that we will do our part to ensure that our holidays will be smooth, orderly and peaceful,” he added. (PNA) CTB/AVE