Two Japanese drugged, robbed

Suspected members of an "Ativan Gang" drugged and robbed two Japanese tourists in Quiapo, Manila, the other day.

Reports reaching the Western Police District identified the victims as Tetshuhiro Yamada, 21, of Shinyo-Omiya Cho Shiniogyo-Kee, Kyoto, Japan; and Tomonoki Somino, 24, of Miyukihigashi-Machi Neyegami-Sai, Osaka. Both are staying at the Joward Pension House in Malate, Manila.

SPO2 Juanito Biag said, the victims were playing golf at about 11 a.m. Friday in the Intramuros Golf Club when four women in their mid-20s befriended them.

The women convinced the victims to accompany them to their apartment in Quiapo after finishing their game.

The victims later told police that they arrived at a house near the Muslim Mosque in Quiapo at about 2 p.m.

They were ushered inside the house where the women prepared food and drinks. After eating chicken tinola and pansit and drinking brandy, the victims felt dizzy and fell fast asleep.

Police said the victims woke up at about 4:45 a.m. yesterday only to find the four women and their P84,000 in cash gone. They reported the crime to the police but could not remember the address where they were brought by the suspects.

Investigators believe that the two were victimized by the "Ativan" robbery gang who use pretty women in luring prospective victims. Once the victims are hooked, the suspects lace their victims’ food or drink with Ativan, a powerful sleep-inducing drug. – Mike Frialde