5 arrested for robbing SAF cop

MANILA, Philippines - Five men who allegedly robbed an off-duty Special Action Force (SAF) police officer were arrested at a Quezon City motel Sunday afternoon.

The room at the South Homes Apartelle on Timog Avenue used by the suspects as a hideout was reportedly paid for by the group’s financier, police officials said. 

Chief Superintendent Richard Albano, Quezon City Police District (QCPD) director, said the suspects â€“ Michael dela Cruz, 30; Resty Hopio, 23; Ehzier Fortuna, 36; Joven Patropes, 25; and Jill Ryan Ibardoloza, 35 – were arrested three hours after robbing Police Officer 1 Liberato Antang, 25, who is assigned with the SAF in Laguna.

Antang was riding a jeepney at the corner of West and Quezon Avenues in Barangay West Triangle when the suspects let some coins fall at his feet, QCPD Station 2 commander Superintendent Pedro Sanchez said.

Another suspect was discreetly searching the police officer to see if he had any valuables, but Antang noticed him. The suspect poked a knife at Antang’s side and demanded he give up his wallet. Antang was then unarmed and gave up his wallet to the suspects, who quickly fled.

Antang chased the fleeing suspects, catching up with Patropes, who was the one who poked a knife at him. Antang disarmed Patropes, catching the attention of police officers, who brought them to the QCPD Station 2.

Patropes confessed that his cohorts were hiding at the motel. The other suspects even sent a text message to Patropes reminding him to meet them at the motel to split their loot.

The other suspects were arrested at the motel past 5 p.m. Sunday. Police officers recovered two knives, four mobile phones, Antang’s wallet containing P7,000, drug paraphernalia and several empty ladies’ bags.