2 robbery suspects nabbed

MANILA, Philippines - At least two of three suspected robbers were arrested yesterday after they reportedly stole P78,000 from the house of a couple as the victims were sleeping.

Chief Inspector said police officers led by SPO1 Gilbert Bangsil arrested Vicente Picardal, 20; and a 14-year-old boy. He said a third suspect, known only as “Ayek,” escaped with the loot.

Toy vendors Victor Padilla, 35, and his wife, Mary Ann, 30, said they lost two cell phones and a leather bag containing P68,000.

Police said Mary Ann was awakened by a noise in their bedroom at around 2:30 a.m. She told probers she saw the suspects walking around the room and pretended to be asleep.

When the suspects turned to leave, she reportedly shouted for help, causing the suspects to run away.

Bystanders chased the fleeing suspects until they cornered Picardal and the boy, who were turned over to responding lawmen.           – Jerry Botial