3 Chinese kidnapping suspects nabbed, charged at DOJ

Kidnapping charges have been filed with the Department of Justice (DOJ) against several Chinese nationals accused of abducting a fellow Chinese national and demanding US$1 million (about P60 million) in ransom.

According to a "24 Oras Weekend" report by John Consulta on Saturday, CCTV footage showed the suspects using a white van to block the victim's car before pointing a gun at him and dragging him into their vehicle.

The victim was taken to a safehouse in Mabalacat, Pampanga, but later managed to escape from his captors. Authorities subsequently rescued him in Angeles City.

The kidnappers allegedly demanded US$1 million for his release.

The victim, who has relatives in the Philippines, had been in the country for only six days when he was abducted.

Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) Regional Director Police Brigadier General Jess Mendez said the group's modus operandi was clear and that the suspects moved quickly.

“Chinese to Chinese ang nangyari (What happened involved Chinese nationals on both sides)," Mendez said.

In a follow-up operation, police arrested three of the five Chinese suspects in Tarlac City. Authorities also arrested the Filipino woman who allegedly rented the white van used in the kidnapping.

Mendez said one of the suspects had a previous case in China linked to scam operations, while another was allegedly involved in illegal drug use.

The arrested suspects are now in the custody of the Philippine National Police Anti-Kidnapping Group and face kidnapping charges. — Jean Mangaluz/MCG, GMA News