Manila: Five armed individuals, allegedly members of the 'Gapos Gang,' who impersonated law enforcement authorities to execute a robbery and illegal detention inside a residential community in Marikina City, were arrested by authorities, the Eastern Police District (EPD) said on Tuesday.
According to Philippines News Agency, EPD Director Brig. Gen. Melecio Buslig Jr. stated that the incident occurred in Barangay Concepcion Dos at approximately 12:30 a.m. on Monday. The suspects were apprehended after one of the victims discreetly sent an emergency distress signal to the local police station using a mobile phone, while the suspects were destroying the home's Wi-Fi connection and CCTV cameras.
Initial investigation revealed that the armed suspects barged into the residence while the homeowners and other household companions were resting. They presented falsified warrants of arrest, claiming to be police officers conducting a legitimate operation against one of the victims. The suspects then tied the victims with cable wires, held them at gunpoint, and ransacked the home for valuable electronic items, high-end timepieces, cash, and gold jewelry.
Buslig noted that upon receiving the distress signal, emergency response teams from Police Sub-Station 8 of the Marikina City Police Station rushed to the scene and cornered the suspects. However, four of the suspects managed to evade arrest and are now the focus of a massive manhunt. Buslig emphasized the EPD's commitment to dismantling any criminal group threatening local neighborhoods.
The suspects will face charges for robbery with violence, usurpation of authority, violation of Republic Act 10591, slight illegal detention, and falsification of public documents.
In a related development, more than 200 individuals facing various offenses were arrested in Quezon City during police operations from July 5 to 11.
Quezon City Police District (QCPD) Director Brig. Gen. Randy Glenn Silvio reported that those arrested included 58 drug suspects, 84 wanted persons, 58 suspected gamblers, and four individuals for illegal possession of firearms. PHP654,688 worth of illegal drugs and PHP17,601 in bet money were seized during the operations.
Silvio mentioned that charges have been filed against some suspects, including violations of RA 9165 and Presidential Decree 1602. He urged Quezon City citizens to remain vigilant and collaborate with the QCPD to ensure a safer city for all.
