CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga — Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) Director Police Brig. Gen. Jess B. Mendez has reminded police units across Central Luzon to strictly comply with regulations governing recovered, impounded, and evidence vehicles under police custody, warning personnel against using them for personal purposes.

The reminder follows the directive of Chief, Philippine National Police (PNP), PGEN Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., requiring all regional directors and heads of concerned offices and units to submit an updated inventory of vehicles under police custody.

The inventory must include each vehicle’s identifying details, legal basis for custody, current location, designated custodian, and status. Any authorized movement, turnover, or release must also be properly documented.

Mendez stressed that vehicles under police custody remain the responsibility of the concerned units and must be properly secured and accounted for at all times. He emphasized that no police personnel, regardless of rank or position, is authorized to use these vehicles for personal benefit.

Reports of unauthorized use, failure to account for vehicles, or falsification of records will be subject to investigation. Personnel found responsible may face administrative or criminal charges, depending on the circumstances and available evidence.

The PRO3 chief directed unit commanders to strengthen supervision and ensure accurate inventory records, proper documentation, and strict accountability for all vehicles under their custody. (Jason de Asis)