DANGER ALERT: Abra police warn public against suspicious men wearing face masks and sling bags

Abra, Philippines – Abra authorities warned the public against the potential threat of men described to be wearing face masks and sling bags wandering around the province.

Sling bags are usually used to hide short and foldable long firearms, while masks are used to hide the identity of gunmen.

The Abra Police Provincial Office, on April 30, made the warning on Facebook, saying that while face masks and sling bags are usually being used for medical and fashion purposes, it has come to their attention that several men clad in these were involved in suspicious activities.

“Hinihikayat ng PNP Abra ang mas mataas na kamalayan sa komunidad kasunod ng maraming ulat ng mga lalaking nakasuot ng face mask at sling bag na sangkot sa mga kahina-hinalang aktibidad sa iba't ibang munisipalidad sa lalawigan,” the Abra PPO wrote.

While they did not detail the alleged involvement of these men in face masks and sling bags, the Abra police said these people may compromise the safety of people.

“Ang mga kamakailang insidente na kinasasangkutan ng mga indibidwal na inilarawan sa ganitong kasuotan ay nagdulot ng mga alalahanin tungkol sa kaligtasan ng publiko,” the authorities said.

The Abra PPO, however, clarified that their warning did not come based on physical factors, but they profile based on recent incidents involving men wearing face masks and sling bags. Nonetheless, the authorities appeal to the public to remain vigilant and immediately report to the police any individuals with questionable actions in their area.

"Hindi kami nag-profile batay sa hitsura lamang. Gayunpaman, batay sa mga kamakailang insidente, hinihiling namin sa publiko na manatiling mapagmasid at iulat ang anumang pag-uugali na mukhang hindi karaniwan o potensyal na mapanganib," the Abra PPO expressed.