SAN LEONARDO, Nueva Ecija – Three of five alleged Akyat Bahay members were collared on Friday after robbing an elderly couple of some P1.6 million in cash and valuables in Barangay Mambangnan here before dawn July 3.
Col. Heryl Bruno, Nueva Ecija police director, said two of the suspects were caught in a hot pursuit operation in the same village at around 4:40 p.m. Friday.
Operatives recovered from the two suspects $300, P30,000 cash, black jogging pants, two bonnets, and a packaging tape believed to have been used in the crime, said Bruno.
“Unfortunately, the other stolen items, including the remaining cash and jewelry, were not recovered,” he said. “Out of fear, another suspect voluntarily surrendered to the authorities earlier Saturday at around 8 a.m.”
Investigation disclosed that five hooded men hogtied a 68-year-old former overseas Filipino worker and his 67-year-old wife and carted away $10,200 (approximately P550,000.00); a Rolex wristwatch worth P400,000; three gold bracelets valued at P180,000; a white gold wedding ring worth P40,000; three gold diamond earrings worth P160,000; Samsung A55 cellphone worth P18,000; and P255,000 cash.
The suspects, all wearing black jackets and bonnets, forcibly entered the victim’s house by breaking the glass door and tearing the window screen, investigation showed.
During the commission of the crime, however, one of the five suspects reportedly got scared and refused to participate. Instead, he approached a police officer from San Leonardo Police Station and provided information that helped advance the investigation.
A follow-up investigation revealed that the robbery was allegedly masterminded by a relative of the victims who was hooked to online gambling called “scatter,” police added.
Meanwhile, another suspect, though still at large, has already been identified, and is now subject of an on-going manhunt.
The suspects, including the one still at large, have been charged with robbery.
“I congratulate my men for their patience and dedication in solving this case, which demonstrates their competency in investigation and intelligence gathering.
Rest assured, the victims will get the justice they deserve. We will not allow criminals to roam freely and endanger the peace and safety of Nueva Ecija,” Bruno said.
Photo: NEPPO
