PRO3 TOP COP WARNS MEN ON MISUSE OF VEHICLES UNDER POLICE CUSTODY

BY KEVIN GALANG

CAMP OLIVAS, City of San Fernando, Pampanga — Police Regional Office 3 director Brig. Gen. Jess Mendez reminded  policemen across Central Luzon to strictly comply with existing regulations governing the handling and safekeeping of recovered, impounded and evidence vehicles, which must never be used for personal purposes.

Mendez issued the reminder following the directive of Philippine National Police chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. requiring all regional directors and heads of concerned offices and units to submit an updated inventory of vehicles under police custody.

Based on the directive, the inventory must include the vehicle’s identifying details, legal basis for its custody, present location, designated custodian and current status.

All authorized movements, turnovers and releases must also be properly documented to ensure transparency and accountability.

Mendez reiterated that vehicles placed under police custody remain the responsibility of the concerned units and must be properly safeguarded and accounted for at all times.

The official emphasized that no police personnel, regardless of rank or position, is authorized to use these vehicles for personal benefit.

He said that any reported unauthorized use, failure to account for vehicles or falsification of records will be subject to investigation. 

According to Mendez, personnel found responsible may face administrative or criminal charges, depending on the circumstances and available evidence.

The PRO3 chief also directed unit commanders to exercise close supervision over vehicles under their custody and ensure that accurate records and proper documentation are maintained.

He said strict compliance with the directive is necessary to prevent the misuse of government-held property and uphold discipline and accountability within the police organization.