3 Chinese nabbed for kidnapping compatriot

MANILA, Philippines — Three Chinese, believed to be members of a loan shark syndicate, were arrested for allegedly kidnapping their compatriot at a casino in

Parañaque City on Monday, the police Anti-Kidnapping Group (AKG) said yesterday.

Charges of kidnapping and serious illegal detention were filed against Wu Kun, 26, Lin Yanquing, 35, and Xia Yugui, 34, before the Department of Justice in Manila on Tuesday.

AKG director Col. Jonnel Estomo said the suspects were arrested at the Bay Tower in Barangay Tambo last Tuesday at around 1 a.m.

The raid also led to the rescue of Zhen Jin Song, 23, a tourist who is temporarily residing in Pasay City.

Estomo said Zheng was kidnapped at the Solaire Resort and Casino at around 4 p.m. after he failed to pay P203,760 he borrowed from the suspects, which he later lost while playing baccarat.

The suspects gave the victim the money on the condition he would pay them with an interest of 20 percent.

While in custody, the victim paid 28,300 renminbi to the suspects.

According to Estomo, Zheng was able to call his friend, who relayed the kidnapping to the authorities.

The suspects are  detained at the AKG’s head office at Camp Crame in Quezon City.