OPERATIVES of the PNP Anti-Kidnapping Group (AKG) rescued a Chinese businessman in Batangas last Sunday, 12 days after he was kidnapped in Paranaque City.
Twelve suspects, including six Chinese, were arrested during the rescue operation and in follow-up operations in Pasay City and Imus, Cavite, the same day.
The victim, a construction supply seller, was snatched last July 1 in front of the Coastal Luxury Residences in Paranaque City.
Police said the victim, at that time, was accompanying a relative who was selling his car to a group of men, who turned out to be kidnappers.
The suspects took the vehicle and later demanded ransom from the victim’s family. Police said the victim’s family paid “millions” in pesos in ransom but declined to say the specific amount.
The family of the victim sought assistance from the police, leading to the conduct of an investigation and subsequent rescue and follow-up operations.
“Once the incident was reported, the PNP immediately activated our anti-kidnapping action team and launched a coordinated effort with other law enforcement agencies,” said PNP chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III in a press briefing at Camp Crame.
“On July 13, after days of negotiations and follow-up operations, our team successfully rescued the victim in Batangas and arrested several suspects,” added Torre.
The rescue operation was conducted at the suspects’ safehouse in Sto. Tomas town in Batangas.
The rest of the suspects were arrested during follow-up operations in Makati and Pasay cities and in Imus, Cavite, also on Sunday.
These operations led to the recovery of multiple vehicles used by the suspects in the kidnapping, P1 million in cash, two firearms, illegal drugs, and uniforms for policemen and security guards.
“We are currently preparing the appropriate charges against those involved and our initial assessment points to a highly organized group that may also be linked to other similar incidents in the past,” said Torre.
The AKG said hot pursuit operations are still underway to track down and arrest other suspects.
AKG director Brig. Gen. Glicerio Cansilao said: “The successful rescue of the victim is a result of the dedication and hard work of our men who work 24/7, rain or shine, to ensure the safety of the victim regardless of nationality.”
“The AKG will never allow these kidnappers to rule over the law, nor are they exempted or protected by the fruits of their illegal activities. My congratulations for a job well done,” added Cansilao.
