Superintendent Sotero Ramos Jr., National Capital Region Police Office-Regional Intelligence Special Operations Office chief, said that it was uncovered with the arrest of one Marlon de la Cruz.
De la Cruz, 47, a resident of Plazang Luma, Arayat, Pampanga, is a member of the unscrupulous traders’ group, reportedly headed by a lawyer, that is engaged in duping legitimate cellphone traders.
On May 5, Walter Altavas, 32, seaman, and Alfredo Francisco, 24, sought the assistance of NCRPO chief Director Vidal Querol claiming that they were victims of a swindling syndicate at the Manila airport.
The victims, both of Malibay, Pasay City, said they were approached by three men who introduced themselves as Customs employees.
The sweet-talking suspects, one introduced himself as Atty. Ed Zamora, were able to convince the victims to pay them an initial P65,000 in exchange for duty-free mobile phones. But after the payment was made, the suspects disappeared.
On Aug. 15, another group of men, one who claimed to be a certain Atty. Roger Burgos, using the same modus operandi, again approached the victims.
The victims sought the RISOO’s help.
An entrapment operation was conducted last week in Parañaque City resulting in the arrest of De la Cruz.
"They are at it again as Christmas is approaching. This time, they would be targetting balikbayans," Ramos warned.
Two-counts of estafa charges were filed against the suspect but he was freed for a P48,000 bail.