Swindle gang busted

MANILA, Philippines - Malabon police busted a gang of alleged swindlers luring small businessmen in Metro Manila into paying a big sum of money for a non-existent freezer and processed meat products.

Senior Superintendent Roberto Villanueva, Malabon police chief, said at least seven alleged members of the swindle gang were rounded up last week in Barangay Tugatog after one of their victims saw them while they were aboard a truck scouting for victims.

“The modus operandi of the group is to sweet-talk prospective victims and collect money in advance in exchange for a token supply of processed meat,” he said.

In her complaint, Mary Jane Arevalo said she gave a total of P 11,000 last April as advance payment for a regular supply of sausage, meat loaf and other processed meat products. She was also promised a freezer as an additional incentive for the deal.

However, the gang disappeared without a trace after taking her money. Police identified the suspects as Felipe Gabaon, Jetro Nakamura, Icarus Batan, Michael Bernabe, Arvin Perez, Nick Antipolo and David Davalos.

Chief Inspector Realito Esperida, Malabon police Station Investigation and Detective Management Office chief, said the suspects were charged with swindling at the Malabon City Prosecutor’s Office.

Prosecutors have ordered their temporary release pending resolution of the case. The gang’s other victims have surfaced to pursue criminal charges against them, Villanueva said.