How do you spot a thief? How do you know that someone has evil intentions? How can you know that the stranger over the phone is telling the truth?
"It's gut feel," says an experienced police officer. "Also, keen observation, by the movement of the hands, the way someone acts, through his mannerisms. That's how you can tell that someone is in good or bad faith."
Once in Quiapo (Philippines), two men boarded the bus Captain Fernandez (a police officer who worked in Makati, City) was in. The police captain thought their faces were suspicious, so he became closely observant and cautious. He was not wrong in his hunch as those men later asked for the passengers' jewelry. They didn't get away with it though, as Capt. Fernandez got hold of them and turned them over to the precinct.
Years of experienced have honed policemen's instincts for spotting trouble. The job requires them to be on the watch for antisocial conduct and to apprehend the offender as soon as possible. According to Criminologist Don Juanito Flores, each person has criminal instincts, so anyone is capable of committing a crime. The instinct can be triggered by greed, environment, and values, among others.
"Some people even consider thievery as a job. Of course, they search for abundant gain but everybody should watch out, especially during payday, because if they can get your hard-earned money, why not? Police Officer Reynaldo Jimenez poses.
While working at keeping order and arresting persons who break the law, the expert police officers give us practical tips on how to spot a criminal.
The Modus Operandi
Snatcher prefer busy areas, such as commercial centers and bus stops. Their eyes are disturbed, waiting for prey. "Others get by picking jewelry," Fernandez says.
"Snatchers also study the actions of people, so everybody must be vigilant specially during busy hours.," another police officer adds.
Usually, if the snatchers are caught, they show guilt by being scandalous. "Before the act, many of them are quiet but they seem so restless," the criminologist says.
Ordinary people like us without detective training may find it a bit hard to discern people with bad intentions, but we must make it our responsibility to be aware of their modus operandi.
With regard to the "Budol-budol" gang, the victims are those who fall for the promise of a quick buck or those who are greedy. The gang shows a bunch of money to attract the victim and makes the switch using bundled up papers instead. "They will convince you they'll double your money," says Captain Fernandez. "But everything is make-believe."
Many says its hypnotism. The gang member utters a chant or lets the victim smell something. Psychology tells us it is mental pushing. So if a stranger stares at you - don't stare back, not straight in the eyes. Remember the theories about the left and right brain functions.
Hold-ups usually happen in secluded places, and more often during the wee hours. Everyone should be watchful of the passengers in aircon buses, for example. Do not ever-decorate yourself with jewelry. Valuables should be left at home. Beware of those who come in groups of four to five males.
Women should wear decent clothes (to avoid rape), and they should avoid passing in dark secluded places. Staying in lighted junctions along with others waiting for a ride/someone to fetch them, is advisable than staying in dark corners.
The "Dugo-dugo" gang (dugo means blood) does the deed on the phone. They try to get your valuables out of the house by pretending to be a member of your family who is in trouble.
Information should not be given to unidentified callers. Maids/helpers must be instructed by employers not to entertain nor give details regarding the activities in the house.
As for drug addicts, notify your nearing rehabilitation offices.
Obviously, the world is full of trickery while it is full of knowledge. Being vigilant is a requirement to safety.
Rosalinda Flores - Martinez
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