15 rob suspects rounded up in Divisoria

MANILA, Philippines - Police rounded up 15 suspected robbers in Divisoria yesterday in an effort to flush out criminals who may take advantage of the expected influx of shoppers during the holiday season.

Those invited for questioning were checked if they have a criminal record and were subsequently released to their respective barangay officials.

According to Meisic police station chief Superintendent Nelson Yabut, snatchings and robberies usually go up during the holidays. Divisoria is the mecca of shoppers looking for bargain prices, especially during the Christmas season.

Yabut said a manhunt was also launched against a certain “Popoy,” who is reportedly the leader of robbery gangs operating in Divisoria. An informant said the gang sells their loot to a fly-by-night pawnshop in Divisoria.   – Nestor Etolle