Suspect in hold-up scams targeting motorcycle taxi riders arrested in Taguig
Police arrested a man identified as a suspect in a series of hold-up scams targeting motorcycle taxi riders in Taguig and nearby areas.
Taguig police identified the suspect as Anthony Robert Santos, 26, tricycle driver and resident of Barangay Roxas District, Quezon City.
His alleged link to the hold-up scams was discovered after he was arrested for brandishing a firearm in Barangay Sta. Ana, Taguig on Oct. 18.
A concerned citizen sought police assistance after seeing a man holding a firearm and shouting in the area, causing fear among residents.
Taguig police responded and collared Santos.
Recovered from him was a .22-caliber revolver with no serial number and loaded with four pieces of live ammunition.
He was arrested for violating Article 155 of the Revised Penal Code (alarms and scandals) and Republic Act 10591 (Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act).
Following his arrest, the Taguig police discovered that the suspect matched physical description and profile circulating in social media posts filed by motorcycle taxi riders, describing a modus operandi wherein a female account books a ride on Angkas and JoyRide but a male passenger shows up upon pickup, leading to robbery or extortion attempts against unsuspecting riders, authorities said.
The suspect’s photos and details closely correspond to those cited in online complaints identifying a group operating from Roxas District in Quezon City and Taguig.
Santos is detained at the Taguig police station and will face charges.
“This arrest sends a clear message that Taguig Police will relentlessly pursue individuals who threaten the safety of our hardworking riders and commuters. We commend the vigilance of the community and encourage continued cooperation in reporting suspicious activities,” said Col. Byron Allatog, officer-in-charge of the Taguig police.