2 alleged kidnappers nabbed at checkpoint

MANILA, Philippines - Two men, suspected to be kidnappers about to snatch a Chinese businessman’s child, were arrested at a police checkpoint in Quiapo, Manila at past midnight yesterday.

Noel Nilooban, 38, and Edison Decena, 36, were stopped at the checkpoint at the corner of Raon street and Quezon Boulevard at past 1 a.m. They were in a Toyota Grandia that bore a Philippine National Police license plate.

They were arrested after the police officers found a shotgun on the floor of the vehicle. Police officers also found a knife, shotgun pellets, a roll of packaging tape, two empty boxes that contained stun guns, and three black bonnets, according to a report.

Sources said Nilooban and Decena were reportedly on their way to kidnap the child of a Quezon City-based businessman.

Manila Police District Station 3 commander Superintendent Ricardo Layug said they will check with the Land Transportation Office to find out who owns the vehicle.

The two suspects face charges of illegal possession of firearms and ammunition, violation of the election gun ban, driving with an expired license and possession of illegal weapon.