INTERIOR Secretary Jonvic Remulla said Wednesday that a syndicate comprised of former Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) employees was responsible for the kidnapping of an international student in Taguig City.
“We are certain that the syndicate behind the kidnapping were former POGO operators. We are certain that the perpetrators used their former bodyguards, who are now AWOL (absent without leave) from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP),” Remulla stated during a Palace briefing.
The Movement for Restoration of Peace and Order (MRPO) reported that the student, attending an international school in Taguig, was rescued on February 20th.
Remulla linked the kidnapping to POGO operations, stating, “This is a result of POGO. We suspect that the victim came from a family that previously operated a POGO.”
The perpetrators, according to Remulla, remain in the country, and authorities are working to apprehend them swiftly. “We will ensure their neutralization as soon as possible,” he added.
Police previously reported that the 14-year-old Chinese national victim was found abandoned along Macapagal Avenue in Parañaque City. No ransom was paid, and the victim received a medical examination at St. Luke’s Medical Center in Bonifacio Global City.
Remulla also revealed that the victim’s driver was found murdered in a separate vehicle, with evidence recovered from the scene. He attributed the motive for the kidnapping to financial gain. A manhunt for the perpetrators is currently underway.
metrosundaily
