WITH the heightened security preparation for the upcoming 31st Summit of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations in November, security personnel have been banned from carrying and using their mobile phones while on duty.
Asean Security Task Force commander Police Director Napoleon Taas said all security personnel should remain focused while on duty.
He said policemen should not be distracted by the use of their cellular phones while manning their posts to prevent any untoward incident from taking place.
“The directive is very clear: The use of cellular phones while on duty is strictly prohibited and anyone while on duty seen or caught tinkering with their device will be held accountable, including their immediate supervisors and commanders,” Taas stressed.
He said numerous reminders have already been issued on the ban, especially during pre-deployment briefings.
Taas said security personnel are allowed to use and check their mobile phones only during breaks, as well as when reporting urgent incidents to their commanders on the ground.
“We believe that banning security personnel from using mobile phones while on duty would immensely help in ensuring the safety and security of all Asean delegates,” Taas added.