Car sales agent in 'labas casa' scheme nabbed after changing her looks

Authorities arrested a female car sales agent who is allegedly involved in the “labas-casa” and “pasalo” car theft scheme even after she has allegedly altered her appearance.

According to Emil Sumangil’s exclusive report on “24 Oras” on Thursday, “Ericka” (not her real name) was allegedly an accomplice of a call center agent involved in the car theft modus who was arrested earlier.

The Philippine National Police – Highway Patrol Group (PNP HPG) arrested Ericka in Muntinlupa City, where she was allegedly hiding. She originally hailed from San Pedro City Laguna.

Police said Ericka was the alleged contact of “Kath,” who was recently arrested after being linked to the “labas-casa” and “pasalo” or “assume balance” scheme.

The group allegedly targeted call center agents. Ericka’s alleged role was to look for people posting their vehicles on social media.

In exchange for P10,000, the victims were asked to submit their ID and other requirements, which would then be forwarded for approval of financing at the dealership.

Once the vehicle is released, the suspects would stop paying the monthly installments and eventually run off with the car.

The PNP-HPG said the groups have been operating in two regions and have stolen P100 million worth of vehicles.

“Ivy,” one of the victims, said she spoke with the suspects when she tried to locate the vehicle registered in her name.

One of the suspects allegedly told her that a police officer was using the car and refused to return it.

The suspect tried to arrange a meeting in Lipa City, Batangas so that Ivy could meet the person who supposedly had the vehicle.

“Takot ako sir eh, baka mamaya di pala totoo na may taong gumagamit (I was scared. What if it’s not true that someone is actually using the car),” Ivy said.

Authorities are also searching for a third female suspect linked to the scheme, who also allegedly changed her appearance.

Ivy said she wanted the suspects to be held accountable and that the car be returned to her, adding that debt collectors are still coming to her house every day.

GMA News is reaching out to the suspects for comment. — Mariel Celine Serquiña/JMA, GMA News