Alert level raised in Zamboanga City
MAYOR Maria Isabelle Climaco-Salazar raised on Friday, December 24, Zamboanga City’s level of alertness against terrorism amid the Christmas celebration.
This came as the security forces thwarted what could have been a devastating bomb explosion following the confiscation late Wednesday, December 22, of an improvised explosive device (IED) ready for detonation and the arrest of the suspected bomber in Kasanyangan village, Zamboanga City.
Salazar also appealed for a much stronger presence of police and military forces in the city, even as she urged the people to also do their share of a civic duty, stressing that the government cannot do it alone without the people’s support and cooperation.
“Let us be vigilant and continue the high level of alert to prevent any terror activities while maintaining our efforts to fight Covid-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) by complying with minimum public health standards,” Salazar said.
She specifically urged the people to avoid overcrowding or refrain from going to crowded places as this provides opportunity for terror attacks, adding that it could also be a super spreader event for the virus.
“Likewise, don’t bring backpacks and other unnecessary items. While we cannot stop people from going out as this is Christmas season, but what we can do is a lot of proactive and preemptive measures so that every family is given the opportunity to celebrate Christmas and News Year peacefully and safely,” she said.
“If necessary, stay home and be safe,” she added. (SunStar Zamboanga)
