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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider Metro Manila devider 5 arrested in Sta. Cruz, Manila mall for swindling senior citizen with fake milk products

5 arrested in Sta. Cruz, Manila mall for swindling senior citizen with fake milk products

Published Jan 20, 2026 09:05 am
Five suspected swindlers were arrested after allegedly deceiving a senior citizen inside a mall in Sta Cruz, Manila by selling fake milk products at a discounted price.
A senior citizen points to one of the suspects during identification procedures at the Manila Police District Station 3 following the arrest of a group accused of swindling the victim inside a Sta Cruz mall. (Photo courtesy of MPD)
A senior citizen points to one of the suspects during identification procedures at the Manila Police District Station 3 following the arrest of a group accused of swindling the victim inside a Sta Cruz mall. (Photo courtesy of MPD)
The suspects were apprehended by personnel of the Manila Police District Station 3 after mall security requested police assistance following a commotion at the mall. Authorities said the group attempted to escape through the parking area after allegedly taking P5,000 in cash from the elderly victim.
According to Manila Police District (MPD) Blumentritt Police Community Precinct Chief Police Captain Ferdinand Cayabyab, the suspects were intercepted while trying to flee in a sport utility vehicle, which was blocked by mall security personnel and responding police officers.
Police said the suspects, who are reportedly from Cavite and Pampanga, targeted senior citizens by offering milk products at prices significantly lower than market value.
The items were suspected to be counterfeit, and the suspects allegedly used bundles of fake money to convince victims that the products had already been sold to other buyers.
After receiving payment, the suspects attempted to flee.
The scheme failed due to the swift response of mall security and Manila police officers.
The five suspects are currently detained at Manila Police District Station 3 and are facing charges of estafa through swindling.
Authorities said further investigation is ongoing to determine other possible additional violations related to the sale of counterfeit goods.

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