PNP nabs scammers using first lady's name for extortion

MANILA, Philippines — Three individuals were arrested by the Philippine National Police Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) for falsely claiming connections to First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos and her family as part of an alleged swindling scheme.

In a statement on Wednesday, the PNP-CIDG said that the swindlers extorted P5 million from a businessman. 

“Alias 'Isko' claimed to have a direct connection with First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos, that if the victim refused to give him the money, he would cancel or hinder all his business transactions,” the agency’s statement read, quoting PNP-CIDG Director Maj. Gen. Romero Caramat Jr.

The arrested individuals were identified as 48-year-old alias Isko and were accompanied by two others.

According to the PNP-CIDG, the suspects threatened to close the establishment of the businessman if he refused to hand in the amount “to protect his emissions testing and medical business.”

The perpetrators were arrested in an entrapment operation in Pasay City. 

They were also caught carrying firearms, including a handgun with three magazines, 32 live ammunition, a license to own and possess firearms and a permit to carry firearms from one of the suspects. These are now under the custody of the authorities.

The agency also confiscated counterfeit banknotes which are in possession of the suspects. 

Isko and the two individuals will face charges of robbery extortion under the Revised Penal Code before the Pasay City Prosecutor’s Office.