Suspect in handcuffs graphics. INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines — Two men were arrested for their foiled attempt to abduct a 15-year-old girl in Las Piñas City, the Philippine National Police (PNP) reported on Saturday.
The arrested suspects were identified as a certain Leonard “Onak” Alfaro, 33; and George “Miako” Caragdag Jr., 46, the PNP said in a statement.
Police said Alfaro and Caragdag attempted to abduct the girl infront of a pawnshop along Marcos Alvarez Avenue, in Barangay (village) Talon 5, on Wednesday, the Southern Police District (SPD) said in another report.
According to the SPD, the suspects parked their black Honda Mobilio in front of the pawnshop. One of the suspects then grabbed the victim and tried to force her inside the car while threatening to shoot her.
Motorcycle riders who saw the incident then approached the car. Seeing the riders approaching, police said the suspects let go of the girl and drove away towards Moonwalk Village, the SPD said.
The victim then later sought the help of the SPD.
On Thursday, Alfaro was arrested at his house in Barangay (village) Pamplona Uno, Las Piñas City, said the PNP.
Seized from Alfaro were a hand grenade and a Magnum .357 revolver loaded with 5 bullets.
Alfaro then told police who was his partner in the botched abduction.
On Friday, a follow-up police operation in Barangay (village) Pilar, Las Piñas led to the arrest of Caragdag. Recovered from him were a gun replica, a 9-inch kitchen knife, and the Black Honda Mobilio.
Speaking to INQUIRER.net, Las Piñas Police chief Col. Jaime Santos said the suspects confessed that they merely wanted to rob the victim.
Santos however said the elements of abduction were present in the crime.
“When we say abduction, it has a lewd design. Often the victims of abduction are female, and there should be a lewd design. The suspects denied that [it was abduction]. The suspects said they were only going to rob her,” Santos said over the phone in Filipino.
“Since the victim is female, a minor and they forcefully drag her into the car, that is abduction. And their motive is to molest her,” he added.
Santos said the suspects are now facing complaints for attempted abduction and for illegal possession of explosives and ammunition.
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