The Southern Police District (SPD) alerted citizens about the possible increase in criminal activities in Metro Manila as the holiday season approaches.
The SPD discovered a new scam called “kambal-plaka” involving ride-hailing services. An incident in Barangay San Isidro, Makati, occurred last Sunday when a 24-year-old female victim booked a ride using a ride-hailing app from her residence in Baclaran, Parañaque to Makati.
During the trip, the driver, identified by his alias “Roland,” suddenly stopped the vehicle, brandished a pair of scissors, and declared a hold-up. Fortunately, the victim’s boyfriend overheard the situation inside the vehicle while on the phone with her and alerted local authorities.
The suspect initially evaded arrest, according to the SPD.
Later, the authorities identified a vehicle matching the suspect’s description and apprehended the legitimate driver of the vehicle with the license plate in question, alias “Jethro.” Investigation revealed that suspect Roland “copied the plate number for illegal use.”
“With alias Jethro’s cooperation, police were able to convince alias Roland to surrender voluntarily, and the victim positively identified him as the perpetrator,” the SPD reported.
The SPD has since issued safety tips for commuters using transportation services, including verifying the driver’s name, photo, and vehicle details before getting in, and matching the information provided by the app. It urged the public to share the ride information with friends or family members and trust instincts if something feels off about the driver or vehicle.
The SPD also advised passengers to sit in the back seat for more personal space and exit if needed, keep personal items secure and avoid displaying valuables, plan their route and use a map app to track their journey, exit in well-lit and populated areas, especially at night, and use reputable ride-hailing apps and services that prioritize safety and have a good track record.
“If you notice suspicious behavior or feel unsafe during a ride, report it to the ride-hailing service and local authorities immediately,” the SPD said.
The National Capital Region Police Office likewise ordered all district commanders — Central Police District, Northern Police District, Southern Police District, Eastern Police District, and Manila Police District — to be on alert status and strengthen police visibility and street patrolling in anticipation of possible crimes like this case to happen this holiday season.
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