NBI gets complaints of rampant cyber-sex crimes

"Effective" -- that’s how the National Bureau of Investigation describes its new program, "Kasali Ka!," a citizen crime reporting system which encourages people to report pressing concerns about crime and related incidents in their communities.

Roland Argabioso, chief of the NBI Field Operations Division, said the bureau has already received hundreds of tips -- through e-mail and text messaging -- in less than a week of the program's implementation.

"At least 40 percent of information was about cyber-sex crimes, 30 percent about drugs, 10 percent about sightings of wanted persons, and the rest was about domestic and marital problems as well as inquiries on how to acquire NBI clearance," Argabioso said.

"We think it's effective because our main goal is for the public to have easy access to the NBI," he added.

Argabioso also said that the NBI has also been receiving information about controversial cases.

"We'll use this information in our investigation," he said. "Hopefully this would help us in resolving the various cases we handle."

The public may now send information to the NBI via e-mail (nbi_fod@yahoo.com) or through a text message to 0927-3128999 or 0921-6188799, or a phone call to 5253094.

Argabioso said that the NBI came up with the program because most people are afraid to come out in the open to give information or report crimes.

"We understand that they're concerned about their safety and security. Through this program, they don't have to reveal their identities. Whatever information they give will remain confidential," he said.

Argabioso said the NBI was now verifying the information it got and surveillance operations were already being conducted as a result of a couple of tips.

But he warned against pranks.

"We have a way of verifying data. While we appreciate the public's cooperation and information provided to us, we will not tolerate unscrupulous individuals who make a mockery of the program."

By Tina Santos - Inquirer