5 suspected thieves nabbed

MANILA, Philippines - Five suspected robbers were arrested by the police yesterday during its intensified anti-crime operations as part of security preparations for the influx of shoppers for the holiday season.

“This time of the year is the usual target of criminals when people start to shop for the Yuletide season. I have directed my men to intensify patrol operations especially near shopping malls and crowded areas,” said Manila Police District director Chief Superintendent Roberto Rongavilla.

Intelligence chief Superintendent Ernesto Fojas Jr. has deployed plainclothes policemen in crime prone areas and shopping centers resulting in the arrest of five suspected robbers. Fojas identified the suspects as Leopoldo Locsin, 19; Joseph de los Reyes, 24; Randy Fernando, 24; Arnulfo Gayoso, 20; and Vicente Navarro, 40.

Recovered from Fernando, Gayoso and Navarro were a fan knife and a cellular phone which was forcibly taken from their victim Jerry Santos.

Locsin and De los Reyes were reportedly waiting for their prey on Oroquieta street in Sta. Cruz when accosted by intelligence operatives.