ANGELES CITY — Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin, Jr. has given the Angeles City Police Office (ACPO) 48 hours to resolve a string of robberies targeting Korean nationals in the city.
In a memorandum dated December 28, 2024, addressed to ACPO Director PCOL. Amado Mendoza Jr., carried out by Acting City Mayor Ma. Vicenta Vega-Cabigting, ACPO is being directed to take immediate action on incidents reported between November and December 2024.
The crimes are allegedly perpetrated by a four-man gang riding motorcycles and armed with pistols.
“These incidents are unacceptable, especially during a season when our community should feel safe and secure,” Mayor Lazatin said. “We are committed to ensuring the safety of our residents and visitors alike, and we will hold those responsible accountable. We expect swift action from our police force to put an end to these incidents.”
Vega-Cabigting echoed the urgent need to ensure the safety of foreign nationals in Angeles City.
“The safety of our constituents and foreign nationals is our top priority,” Vega-Cabigting stated.
The ACPO is expected to prioritize the resolution of these cases and provide an update within the given timeframe, Vega-Cabigting says.
Vega-Cabigting also called for increased police presence in densely populated areas and business establishments to prevent further crimes.
To recall, Mayor Lazatin also directed ACPO to address robberies near the Rafael Lazatin Memorial Medical Center (RLMMC), where incidents have affected nurses and small businesses, particularly during the holiday season.
Vega-Cabigting assured the city government’s commitment to safeguarding RLMMC employees and business establishments in the vicinity.
