A former military officer linked to a kidnap-for-ransom case involving a Filipino-Pakistani businessman in Makati City in 2007 was arrested in Barangay Limonda, Opol, Misamis Oriental on Sunday, February 15, 2026, after nearly two decades of hiding.

According to the Police Regional Office-Northern Mindanao (PRO-10), the accused identified as alias “Tinyente Preacher Jacob” was arrested by virtue of a warrant for kidnapping for ransom under Article 267 of the Revised Penal Code issued by a court in Makati City on June 29, 2007.

The accused held the rank of second lieutenant and was a graduate of the Scout Ranger Course.

He was included in the police’s list of most wanted kidnappers in 2011 with a bounty of P300,000 for his arrest.

Based on report, the Filipino-Pakistani businessman was abducted by armed men in front of his store on Dela Rosa Street corner Santuico Street, Makati City on May 24, 2007.

The suspects allegedly demanded a ransom of P2 million. The ransom was paid on June 2, 2007, but despite the payment, the victim was not released immediately and was told he would be freed the next day.

The victim was released on June 3, 2007, along N. Garcia Street, Makati City.

Authorities arrested several suspects during a follow-up operation.

Police said the Jacbo’s co-accused – two former soldiers, a police officer, and three other individuals – were convicted in 2018 and were sentenced to reclusion perpetua after they were found guilty of kidnapping for ransom.

Jacob went into hiding until his arrest on February 15, 2026.

“For 19 years he hid from the law, but justice has finally caught up. His arrest closes a long-standing kidnapping case where his co-accused have already been sentenced to reclusion perpetua. This sends a clear message: fugitives may run, but they cannot outrun justice,” PRO-10 Director, Brigadier General Christopher Abrahano, said.

The accused is now under the custody of the Cagayan de Oro City Police Office (COCPO).