LUNA, Apayao – Although there was no carnapping cases that transpired in Apayao from January to August 15, 2024, the Highway Patrol Group (HPG-Apayao) on Thursday said it has intensified its enforcement to sustain it.
In an interview, PCPT Peter Basilio said HPG workforce are regularly deployed in various places in Apayao along its roads and highways conducting series of checkpoint operations, traffic direction and control, mobile patrolling, night patrolling, joint operation and terminal inspections as means to warn robbers and protect the public from mischief or crime.
RA 10883 or The New Anti-carnapping Act of 2016 is a law that aims to deter and penalize the unlawful taking of motor vehicles, also known as carnapping.
Basilio earlier warned Apayao residents not to be complacent but vigilant despite the no cases reported because violators may commit such crime unexpectedly. Basilio also mentions modern carnapping schemes.
NEW MODUS of carnappers to dispose stolen vehicles
“The first modus is dubbed as ‘Rent-Tangay-Sangla’ where the carnapper poses as a client to a car rental business. Once in the possession of the motor vehicle, the suspect will dispose of it by pawning or selling it with fake documents to unsuspecting buyers.”
Another is, the ‘Assume-Balance-Scam’ a.k.a Pasalo-Benta where the carnapper poses as a buyer of an encumbered motor vehicle, promising that he/she will continue paying for the monthly amortizations.
While the downpayment and monthly amortizations already paid are usually reimbursed to the motor vehicle owner, the buyer (scammer) getting the vehicle has no intention of paying the remaining amortizations but will dispose of the MV to generate profit,” he explained.
“The worst thing is that even innocent buyers can be framed up and tagged as robbers, so when someone sells you motor vehicles, always have it verified at the office, to avoid becoming a victim,” Basilio added.
Regarded as the premier guardians of the Philippine highways, the Apayao HPG said its personnel shall continue to carry out its campaign towards anti-carnapping, while maintaining peace, order and security on roads.
If something suspicious is observed in the community, individuals are advised to call Apayao HPG hotline number 09621900972 or reach their FB account phptapayao cordillera. By Arjay Baysa
