Two motorcycle riding individuals were arrested by the Makati City Police on Sunday, Feb. 9, during a pursuit operation against them after robbing a Taiwanese national in Makati City on Feb. 8.
The suspects were identified as Raymund Santiago, 32, and John Robert Alay, 29.
Based on the police report, the suspects were positively identified by multiple witnesses as the ones who robbed a Taiwanese national at gunpoint and took his cellphone in front of Antel Corporate Center on Valero Access Road 3 in Barangay Bel-Air.
According to Makati Police chief Col. Jean Dela Torre, the incident was not immediately reported to the police, but a CCTV video of the robbery was instead posted first on social media which quickly became viral overnight.
The police then launched a pursuit operation against the suspects.
"At approximately 5 a.m. on Feb. 9, patrolling officers spotted Raymund and John Robert recklessly counterflowing on Malugay Street, Barangay San Antonio, on a motorcycle. When signaled to stop, the suspects attempted to flee, prompting a police pursuit," the police said.
"The chase ended when the suspects lost control of their motorcycle and crashed onto the pavement. As officers moved in, John Robert attempted to draw a firearm but was swiftly subdued," it added.
Raymund and John Robert yielded a .38 caliber revolver loaded with live ammunition, an improvised pen gun, a set of picklocks, pliers, and other paraphernalia.
"Both suspects were taken to the Makati City Police Station’s Investigation and Detective Management Section (IDMS) for further questioning. They face charges under Republic Act 10591 (Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act) in relation to the Omnibus Election Code, Article 304 of the Revised Penal Code (possession of picklocks and similar tools), robbery, and disobedience to a person in authority," the Southern Police District (SPD) said.
Dela Torre urged the public to immediately report any criminal activity to the police instead of just posting it on social media.
"Public safety is a shared responsibility that necessitates the active participation of all community members. We would like to express our concern regarding the utilization of social media platforms as initial recourse, rather than promptly notifying law enforcement authorities. Early reporting ensures swift, coordinated action and upholds the integrity of investigative processes.” the official said.