Council welcomes new COCPO chief

THE 21st City Council welcomed Police Colonel Dexter Paje, the newly designated acting city director of the Cagayan de Oro City Police Office (COCPO).

During the session, Councilor Eric Salcedo, former co-chair of the night market management committee, quizzed the new police chief over the coordination issue between the police and the local government in addressing problems with illegal sidewalk vendors, especially with the anticipated increase in foot traffic during the holiday season.

Salcedo noted that seeking police assistance has often been difficult unless a request is communicated through the Economic Enterprise Business Development Administration (CEEDBA).

Col. Paje assured that the police force will work closely with the city government and other concerned offices through a holistic approach. He also suggested the creation of a multi-agency task force similar to what he implemented in Quezon City when he led operations.

Meanwhile, Councilor Roger Abaday, chairperson of the committee on public order and safety, sought updates on recent shooting incidents reported in Barangays Patag, Iponan, and Pinikitan, Camaman-an.

Paje reported that the Special Investigation Task Group (SITG) has already identified persons of interest (POIs) in the Antatico cases, subpoena will be issued on November 10 for the suspect, while investigation in the Pinikitan incident is still ongoing due to the lack of witnesses in identifying the suspects.

But Abaday lamented the delays in apprehending and identifying the perpetrators to resolve the cases.

Paje explained that while COCPO investigators are capable, the lack of personnel and functional CCTV systems has slowed progress.

The police will therefore strategize in increasing visibility and conduct checkpoints based on crime mapping and the city’s crime clock, he assured the body.

When asked about the city’s campaign against illegal drugs, Paje reaffirmed that intensifying anti-drug operations remains a top priority under his leadership.

The City Council members expressed their confidence in Col. Paje’s leadership in strengthening peace and order through coordinated efforts with the local government. (FDC/SP)