Basket of fish leads to fugitive's capture

MANILA, Philippines – For reportedly stealing a basket of fish, a murder suspect who was able to evade authorities for the past 11 years was arrested by maritime police at the Navotas City Fish Port Complex at around midnight Tuesday.

Senior Superintendent Samuel Saylim, National Capital Region Maritime Police Office chief in Navotas City, said Randy Villegas, 32, has a standing warrant of arrest for a 1999 murder case in Malabon City and another arrest warrant for illegal possession of a deadly weapon in Navotas.

Police Officer 2 Divina Garo said a team led by Police Officer 3 Marciano Bogar arrested Villegas in front of Sea Quest fish stall at the Navotas Fish Port Complex for reportedly stealing a basket of fish.

Fish traders tried to accost Villegas but the suspect put up a fight, prompting them to call the maritime police for assistance. Villegas was cornered while trying to escape.