Robbers from Mindanao target Cebu–police

Police warned commercial establishments and other monetary institution to be vigilant due to reports that a group of robbers from Mindanao is planning to strike in Cebu.

The warning came after twin robberies that occured in Tagbilaran City, Bohol last August 28.

Chief Insp. Michael Anthony Bastes said the eight robbers who hit Oro China Pawnshop and Bombay Hollywood Bazaar initially planned to strike in Cebu.

The plan was averted when one of its cohorts was arrested, said Bastes, chief of the Investigation and Detection Management Branch of the Mandaue City Police Office (MCPO).

Bastes and other policemen went to Bohol to assist in the investigation as ordered by Chief Supt. Marcel Garbo, chief of the Police Regional Office in Central Visayas (PRO-7).

Bastes said the group is targeting banks, armored vans and pawnshops.

The robbers were identified through their driver’s licenses and other identification cards which they presented when they rented motorcycles and checked in a hotel where they stayed before the robbery.

Bastes said the police will be distributing facial composites of the robbers.

Based on the execution of the robbery, the suspects, who were armed with high-powered firearms, are members of a highly organized group.

Because of the threat, the Mandaue police will be strictly implementing the Police Integrated Patrol System which includes conducting checkpoints and Oplan Bakal Sita, said Bastes