Watch seller accuses MPD cop of robbery

MANILA, Philippines - A person who buys and sells watches for a living charged a Manila policeman with robbery yesterday.

Fernan Cultura accused Police Officer 2 Rolando Amar of the Manila Police District Traffic Enforcement Unit of accosting him and taking his merchandise at least four times. He went to the MPD General Assignment Section (GAS) yesterday afternoon to put an end to the abuse after Amar reportedly took two watches from him Thursday.

In his complaint, Cultura said Amar saw him at about 6:30 p.m. Thursday along Arquiza street in Mabini while he was trying to sell a diver’s watch that cost at least P8,000. He also had in his possession a Tissot watch, owned by his brother, who asked him to pawn it so he could redeem his driver’s license.

Cultura said the police officer suddenly approached him, frisked him and took the watches and his money. Amar then slapped him and told him he should not be seen in the area again.

Senior Police Officer 2 John Cayetano said GAS operatives, led by SPO2 James Poso, tried to apprehend Amar, but he reportedly had been tipped off and was not at his post. The STAR tried but failed to contact Amar yesterday.

Senior Inspector Ramon Meneses said the case will be filed with the fiscal’s office tomorrow.