MANILA, Philippines — A pedicab driver was arrested on Monday night after reportedly raping and stalking a 12-year-old girl, Manila Police District (MPD) said Tuesday.
A report from police identified the suspect as Anthony Hernandez, 31, of Sta. Mesa, Manila.
Police said the suspect was arrested inside his home after a complaint from the victim’s mother that the suspect “continuously molested” the victim from July 2019 to first week of March 2020.
The suspect also reportedly stalked the victim in school, police noted.
One of the victim’s relatives who knew about the incident informed the victim’s mother, who reported the harassment to authorities.
Subsequently, barangay officials apprehended the suspect, who is now under custody of Sta. Mesa police and will face cases for violation of Anti-Rape Law of 1997 in relation to Special Protection of Children Against Child Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act.