NBI arrests couple posing as NPA to extort money

The National Bureau of Investigation on Monday arrested a couple in Dagat-Dagatan, Caloocan City who extorted money amounting to over P2.6 million from a businessman by claiming to be affiliated with the New People’s Army. 

According to the NBI, the operation stemmed from the complaint of a businessman who said he was receiving threats from an individual who was allegedly affiliated with the NPA.

The NBI said the suspect had been demanding annual payments from the complainant and his family since 2018 in exchange for their safety. The complainant deposited more than P2.6 million to the arrested individuals.

After investigating the matter, the NBI said it traced the extortion number to the couple. 

Meanwhile, the owner of the bank account admitted upon questioning that her account was used to receive money for her neighbor in exchange for a cut. 

She then cooperated with the authorities in the entrapment operation.

This led to the arrest of the couple. The man admitted to the extortion and surrendered his cell phone and SIM that were used to send threats.

He and his wife underwent inquest proceedings before Caloocan City prosecutors for extortion, violation of the SIM Registration Act, financing of terrorism, and money laundering.

They are currently detained at the NBI’s detention facility in Muntinlupa City. —AOL, GMA Integrated News