‘Journalist’; 3 pals held for robbery-extortion
CAMP GEN OSCAR FLORENDO, La Union – A “journalist” and his three other companions were arrested for demanding “protection money” at an amusement center (perya) in Barangay Tayambani, San Carlos City, Pangasinan on Friday.
Reports received by Police Brigadier Gen. John Chua, Police Regional Office (PRO) 1 director, the four suspects were all from Pangasinan.
The two victims were “perya” organizers, both from San Carlos City, Pangasinan.
According to the police report, the suspects went to the perya and allegedly threatened the victims if they will not cooperate.
One of the suspects allegedly pulled a gun from his sling bag and demanded the victim to give P10,000 cash as “protection money” for the amusement center.
The victim told the police that because of fear and for their safety, he gave the money they were demanding and immediately fled to an unknown direction.
The victims immediately reported the incident to San Carlos PNP (Philippine National Police), and police operatives immediately conducted a hot pursuit operation, resulting in the suspects’ arrest.
Authorities recovered a cal. 45 pistol, live ammo, several suspects’ belongings for inspection, and a Toyota Vios sedan.
The suspects and the evidence are now under the custody of San Carlos Police for filing criminal charges and disposition.
