PNP chief orders full use of tech, intelligence to track fugitives

MANILA — Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has ordered police units to maximize available technology and intelligence resources to track down wanted persons and prevent them from escaping through the country’s coastal exit points.

Nartatez directed concerned units to intensify border intelligence operations and identify possible escape routes used by fugitives, particularly in coastal communities and known maritime exit points.

The directive aims to strengthen the PNP’s ability to identify and locate wanted persons who may attempt to evade arrest by leaving the country through unauthorized routes.

“The Philippine National Police must continue investing in intelligence-driven technologies, real-time information sharing, and integrated monitoring systems that allow us to track fugitives and criminal networks across jurisdictions,” Nartatez said in a statement.

He added that stronger data analytics, surveillance capabilities and coordination among law enforcement agencies would help authorities stay ahead of criminals exploiting maritime routes and other exit points.

The initiative is part of broader government efforts to combat transnational crimes, including drug trafficking, human trafficking and online scam operations across the ASEAN region.

Nartatez stressed that fugitives remain accountable even if they manage to leave the country.

“Leaving the country does not erase a crime, nor does crossing a border place anyone beyond the reach of the law,” he said.

The PNP chief said the organization would pursue all lawful means and work with foreign counterparts to ensure wanted persons are brought to justice.