Pakistani nabbed in estafa scheme using victims' IDs to buy cars

A Pakistani national linked to syndicated estafa over an alleged scheme involving the use of victims’ documents to acquire vehicles has been arrested in Baguio City, police said.

Police Regional Office 4A (PRO 4A) chief Police Brigadier General Hansel Marantan said the suspect, alias “Habibi,” was initially arrested on May 2 through a warrant for an illegal recruitment case.

“In the course of the agency check, led by the HPG and PRO 4A, we were able to uncover that there are many complaints this guy is facing,” Marantan said in a briefing.

“To be more particular about it, there’s syndicated estafa committed against members of the Department of Education. I mean the teachers—actually, they are here today, more than 20 of them, to file a complaint,” he added.

Authorities said the suspect allegedly recruited teachers, Philippine Coast Guard personnel, and other individuals, offering them P30,000 in exchange for the use of their personal identities and government-issued documents.

The suspect then allegedly used these identities to acquire vehicles through financing or loan arrangements.

However, he reportedly failed to pay the amortizations, leaving the victims liable for the debts and subject to collection efforts from banks.

Victims said they were made to believe they would have no further obligations after receiving the cash incentive.

Authorities said the scheme was traced to multiple areas, including Baguio City, Pangasinan, Bulacan, and other provinces, indicating a possible organized operation.

Marantan said around 50 teachers and 50 Philippine Coast Guard personnel may have been victimized.

Investigators are also looking into possible irregularities in vehicle registration and transfers, including potential involvement of personnel from the Land Transportation Office (LTO).

Authorities added that some of the vehicles were allegedly resold, rented out, or transferred under different names.—MCG, GMA News