Kidnap attempt draws new security concerns
The kidnapping attempt on the son of one of Saipan’s biggest garment manufacturers has triggered fresh concerns from the government regarding public safety and growing criminal activities on the island.
Gov. Pedro P. Tenorio has summoned administration officials for a meeting tomorrow to discuss the case, and seek ways to prevent such incidents in the future.
“I am concerned about some of the activities that are happening here,” he told reporters yesterday when sought for comment on the kidnapping attempt.
The 13-year-old son of businessman James Lin, owner of UIC, escaped from suspected kidnappers while in school Monday afternoon. It was believed to be a kidnap for ransom case.
Although investigation is still ongoing, Tenorio has instructed officials to beef up security and boost efforts to combat criminal activities in the CNMI.
“Anything that endangers the life of an individual, yes, I am concerned,” he said, adding that forthcoming preventive measures will deal with protection of residents on the island.
The Department of Public Safety has stepped up patrol and surveillance in the area where the Lins reside, as well as in the school where the kidnap attempt took place, according to Commissioner Charles W. Ingram.
In recent months, cases of theft, robbery and snatching have risen, which police blame on the rampant use of illegal drugs in the Commonwealth. Last month, off-island visitors in Garapan reported snatching incidents while walking in the tourist district.
