KIDNAP-for-ransom cases have been reduced to an all-time low this year with only five instances recorded and all solved by the Police Anti-Crime and Emergency Response (Pacer).

Senior Supt. Leonardo A. Espina, Pacer chief, said this is a record in 13 years. "For the first semester of the year, we have experienced an all-time low in kidnapping-for-ransom statistics since 1995 with only five cases perpetrated by kidnapping syndicates, all solved with most of the perpetrators arrested and cases filed in court."

Espina said that for this year, they have arrested and filed cases against 29 suspected kidnappers and even neutralized 15 other persons wanted for various crimes. He said 21 of the suspected kidnappers were convicted and sentenced to life while the rest were given the major prison sentences.

"Noteworthy to mention are the latest arrests made by Pacer of 10 of the 12 members of a notorious kidnapping-for-ransom gang that kidnapped Ramon Murillo, the vice president of Philippine National Bank, and the group of Chief Insp. Exequiel Cautiver for the kidnapping and murder of Demy Canete and his driver Allan Garay (in Dasmariñas, Cavite)," Espina said.

Pacer marked its 6th anniversary yesterday with PNP chief Director General Avelino Razon Jr. and Espina honoring officers and men and civilian personalities who have contributed to the unit's success in curbing KFRs.

Razon underscored anew the crucial role played by the community in the anti-kidnapping drive and urged the public to maintain their vigilance and the families of the victims to cooperate with police.