Fake cop beaten, nabbed for trike theft

MANILA, Philippines - A fake policeman was beaten and arrested yesterday after allegedly stealing a tricycle in Tondo, Manila.

Rommel Sebastian, 41, was almost killed by irate residents who caught him with Winefredo Torres’ tricycle, according to Senior Inspector Rizalino Ibay, who heads the Manila Police District’s anti-car theft unit.

Sebastian was released from jail last month after being arrested for allegedly posing as a policeman and robbing jeepney passengers, Ibay said.

Several complainants went to the MPD yesterday and identified Sebastian in at least eight robberies. The suspect admitted to the crimes and claimed he has killed at least eight persons, Ibay said.

He added that he is verifying records at the MPD homicide section.

Torres told police Sebastian identified himself as a policeman and asked that he be brought to the intersection of Wagas and Lakandula streets in Tondo last Sunday. The suspect then asked him to buy a cigarette at one of the stores along the way.

When he returned with the cigarette, the suspect and his tricycle were gone, Torres said.

Yesterday morning, Torres saw Sebastian with his tricycle in Blumentritt. He sought the assistance of barangay watchmen in the area. Sebastian tried to flee but was caught by vendors and residents, who beat him until police officers put him under arrest.

Sebastian, who was charged with usurpation of authority last month, is facing cases of car theft, robbery and usurpation of authority, Ibay said.