A man was arrested for extorting money in exchange for returning a mobile phone that he stole from a jeepney passenger in Taytay, Rizal, early Sunday, March 9.
The Taytay Municipal Police Station (Taytay MPS) reported that the victim, a man from Marilao, Bulacan, fell asleep onboard a jeepney after attending a relative's wake in Taytay.
While the victim was sleeping, the suspect took the opportunity to steal his bag, which contained his cellphone, wallet, and other valuables.
The victim only realized his belongings were missing after waking up, prompting him to call his phone using another device in hopes of locating it. Unexpectedly, the suspect answered and demanded money in exchange for returning the phone.
After the call, the victim immediately sought help from the Taytay MPS. Lt. Col. Marlo N. Solero, chief of police, and Capt. Arnulfo Mendoza III, deputy chief of police, quickly set up an entrapment operation.
The victim agreed to meet the suspect at the Taytay Tiangge in Barangay San Juan, Taytay. After confirming he was the thief, the victim handed over the cash, signaling the police to arrest him immediately.
The suspect is now in the custody of Taytay MPS.
Meanwhile, authorities urged other victims of similar schemes to report their experiences so their complaints could be included in the case against the suspect.
"Bukas po kami 24/7 at maaari ninyong makontak sa numerong 0917-163-3556 at 0998-598-5730 (The station is open 24/7 and can be reached at 0917-163-3556 and 0998-598-5730),” they said.