Para±aque: Four Chinese nationals were arrested over the weekend for allegedly kidnapping a fellow Chinese citizen, Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III announced on Monday. In a press briefing at Camp Crame, Torre stated that the suspects were apprehended on Saturday by members of the PNP’s Anti-Kidnapping Group (AKG) at a resort-casino in Para±aque City.

According to Philippines News Agency, the group operated under the guise of money changers, targeting individuals exchanging large sums of money. Torre elaborated, noting the suspects’ established reputation as money changers. AKG director Brig. Gen. Glicerio Cansilao revealed that the 30-year-old male victim managed to discreetly contact a friend through a borrowed mobile phone. The friend alerted law enforcement via 911, prompting a swift response from authorities.

Upon arrival, AKG operatives found six individuals in the hotel room – the four suspects, the male victim, and a female Chinese national who was also identified as a victim. Investigations unveiled that the male victim suffered physical harm and was coerced into transferring approximately US$50,000 from his cryptocurrency wallet as ransom.

The suspects are currently detained at Camp Crame, having undergone inquest proceedings for charges of kidnapping and serious illegal detention. Brig. Gen. Cansilao emphasized the importance of ensuring safety within the nation’s borders and reiterated the AKG’s commitment to safeguarding lives and apprehending criminals.

Gen. Torre further disclosed that the Chinese suspects were former employees of Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs) displaced following the government’s ban on POGOs.