5 theft suspects nabbed at Naia Terminal 3
(INQUIRER FILE PHOTO)
MANILA, Philippines — Authorities arrested five suspected members of a theft gang at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Naia) Terminal 3, the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) said on Wednesday.
The MIAA, in a statement, said the five suspects were arrested at Naia on May 11 following weeks of surveillance by the MIAA Airport Police Department (APD).
The MIAA said all five are suspected members of the “Salisi Gang”, which was linked to several thefts between April 28 and May 5, targeting sleeping or distracted passengers.
“Their tactic involved one member distracting victims while others stole unattended bags or devices,” the MIAA said.
“Five of the estimated ten members were apprehended, with two managing to escape during a brief chase,” MIAA added.
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Two mobile phones and a laptop were then recovered from the suspect upon their arrest, said the MIAA.
Three cases of theft, resistance and disobedience to persons in authority, as well as attempted escape have already been filed against the suspects.
Meanwhile, the MIAA said authorities are also conducting further investigation on the gang’s possible links to other crimes in Metro Manila.
MIAA-APD chief Col. Bing Jose urged passengers to stay alert, avoid leaving their belongings unattended, and report any suspicious activity to uniformed security officers.
