Manila was once again rocked by a crime after the murder of 2 Japanese foreigners in the heart of the city. This happened on August 15, where both victims were shot and killed, and their money and belongings were taken. According to the report, 2 suspects have been identified and arrested, and to the surprise of many, one of them is the tour guide who is an acquaintance of the victims.
The two victims were a 41-year-old from Shizuoka and a 53-year-old from Fukuoka. They had come to Manila for vacation and were staying at a hotel near the scene. As they were getting out of a white taxi, they were suddenly approached by armed men and opened fire. They were killed instantly and robbed of valuables, including money estimated to be worth approximately ₱300,000.
CCTV footage showed that after the shooting, the perpetrators quickly fled on a motorcycle. The entire incident lasted only about a minute. Police also found a motorcycle that matched the one seen on camera, which they later confiscated.
According to residents, the suspects may have been in position hours before the crime. They were later identified and arrested, including the tour guide who was also with the victims before they were shot.
Due to this incident, the Japanese Embassy issued a warning to their compatriots in the Philippines. Tourists are advised to avoid walking alone at night and to take extra precautions while visiting Manila.