Para±aque city: The Philippine National Police-Anti-Kidnapping Group (PNP-AKG) operatives have arrested 12 suspects, including six Chinese nationals, in the kidnapping of a Chinese national on July 1 in Para±aque City.

According to Philippines News Agency, in a press briefing on Monday, Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III explained that the foreign national was abducted under the pretense of a vehicular transaction. "Based on our investigation, it became clear the kidnapping was premeditated and carried out by a group composed of foreign and local individuals," Torre said.

The victim, who was assisting a relative with a supposed car sale, met with individuals who turned out to be part of the kidnapping operation. After gaining the victim's trust, the suspects took control of the vehicle and demanded a large sum of money from the family in exchange for the victim's release.

Upon learning of the incident from the victim's relatives, the PNP launched a coordinated effort with other law enforcement agencies, leading to the rescue of the foreign national in the suspects' safehouse in Sto. Tomas Batangas on Sunday.

All 12 suspects were apprehended in separate follow-up operations in Pasay and Makati cities and in Imus town in Cavite on Sunday. The operations also led to the recovery of multiple vehicles used by the suspects in the kidnapping, PHP1 million in cash, two firearms, illegal drugs, and uniforms for policemen and security guards.

"We are currently preparing the appropriate charges against those involved, and our initial assessment points to a highly organized group that may also be linked to other similar incidents in the past," Torre stated. "The AKG will never allow these kidnappers to rule over the law, neither are they exempted nor protected by the fruits of their illegal activities. My congratulations for a job well done," he added.