Olaso Orders Filing of Charges Against Alleged Exhibitionist; Suspect Arrested After Viral Incident
Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay– Mayor Khymer Olaso has directed authorities to pursue the filing of charges against a 50-year-old man who allegedly exposed himself to a female passenger of a public utility jeepney (PUJ) traveling along the Arena Blanco–City Proper route on Monday, July 13.
The mayor issued the directive after police authorities presented the arrested suspect at City Hall following his apprehension early Tuesday morning in Barangay Rio Hondo.
The arrest came shortly after a video showing the alleged indecent act circulated widely on social media. The incident prompted Mayor Olaso to announce a cash reward for information that would lead to the identification and arrest of the person involved.
Police authorities are preparing to file a complaint for Alarm and Scandal under Article 155 of the Revised Penal Code against the suspect. Mayor Olaso also assured the victim of possible assistance in pursuing legal action and other necessary support.
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Authorities said the incident was reportedly the second time the suspect had committed a similar act. However, the previous victim chose not to file a formal complaint.
Mayor Olaso strongly condemned the act, stressing that public indecency and behavior that threatens the safety and dignity of commuters will not be tolerated in the city.
Police investigators identified the suspect as a resident of Barangay Kasanyangan and said he was allegedly under the influence of illegal drugs when the incident occurred.
Meanwhile, fulfilling his earlier commitment, Mayor Olaso personally turned over the promised reward to the individual who provided information that helped authorities locate the suspect, as well as to the police personnel who carried out the successful arrest.
The local government reiterated its call for residents to report similar incidents and assured the public that authorities remain committed to maintaining peace, order, and the safety of commuters throughout Zamboanga City.
