NBI exec calls for Helmet Law modification
TO put more teeth in the campaign against hired killers who use motorcycles as their getaway vehicles, a law enforcer is proposing a modification of the Helmet Law at the local government (LGU) level.
Lawyer Dave Alunan, executive officer of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Dagupan office, said he will propose to the city government to follow the modified rule in the enforcement of the helmet law adopted by other LGUs.
Alunan cited Laoag City in Ilocos Norte, Vigan City in Ilocos Sur, and Calasiao here in Pangasinan, all of which passed ordinances that require motorcycle riders to remove their headgears when they are riding within the city’s main thoroughfares or downtown proper for easier identification.
He said the LGUs managed to modify the Helmet Law using their police power under the constitution, to protect the public from hired killers.
The Helmet Law, a national legislation, is in effect countrywide requires the wearing of helmets everywhere.
Speaking during the forum “Engkwentro” in Barangay Lucao, Dagupan City on June 3, Alunan said requiring the removal of helmets within downtown areas will help in crime prevention and solution since riders can no longer avoid hiding their faces behind their helmets.
He cited the killing of Dante Untalan, chief of the Public Attorney’s Office who was waylaid by motorcycle-riding men wearing helmets on the way to his office.
He said there were eyewitnesses in the commission of the crime but they could not identity the suspects because they wore helmets that covered their faces.
At the same time, he also pointed out the need for police and the Land Transportation Office to be stricter in disallowing motorcycles without plate numbers to roam streets and highways.
He suggested to the police to immediately impound the motorcycles without plates and should only be released upon presentation of proof of ownership and registration.
Alunan suggested that barangay tanods stop motorcycles without plate numbers roaming in their respective areas of jurisdictions.
He pointed out that a number of crimes perpetrated by hired killers riding in tandem on motorbikes without plate numbers make it doubly hard for law enforcers to track suspects.
Alunan also acknowledged that another problem in Pangasinan that makes it difficult to apprehend hired killers on motorcycles is the presence of numerous entry and exit points. –LM
Share your Comments or Reactions
Powered by Facebook Comments
