TACLOBAN CITY - The police on Wednesday advised the public to remain vigilant against criminal elements after recording an increase in the number of robbery-hold-ups in Leyte.

Chief Inspector Alex Daaco, operations of the Philippine National Police-Leyte, said his office has recorded 24 cases of robbery-holdups in Leyte from September 1 to November 17. He said eight of the cases involved "riding-in-tandem" robbers.

He said crimes against property are also on the rise ahead of the holidays.

Daaco said local authorities should increase police visibility in their respective areas. "They should also coordinate with the community. Roving and random checkpoints would be a very big help to preempt any crime incidence," he said.

Last Sunday three suspects riding a single motorcycle carted away P77,000 from a palay station in Dagami, Leyte. On Tuesday two suspects riding tandem on a motorcycle also grabbed P10,000 in Tanauan, Leyte.