The Philippine National Police Anti-Kidnapping Group (PNP-AKG) arrested 12 people, including 6 Chinese, for the kidnapping of a Chinese national on July 1 in Parañaque City. According to PNP Chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III, the victim was attempted to deceived by pretending to be selling a car.
Torre said, "Based on the investigation, the crime was planned and carried out by a group composed of Chinese and Filipinos. They tricked the victim into meeting for a car deal, and after gaining his trust, they took him away." The victim's family was asked for a large sum of money in exchange for his freedom.
The PNP immediately coordinated with other agencies after the victim's relatives reported the incident. In an operation in Sto. Tomas, Batangas, the victim was successfully rescued.
The suspects were arrested in follow-up operations in Pasay, Makati, and Imus, Cavite. Recovered from them were several vehicles used in the crime, PHP1 million, two firearms, drugs, and fake police and security uniforms.
According to the PNP-AKG, the group may be linked to other similar incidents in the past. "AKG will not allow these criminals to get away with it. All those involved will be charged and held accountable to the law.**"
