2 rob gang members arrested

Two suspected members of a notorious robbery group preying on banks and money changer outlets were arrested in a raid conducted yesterday by agents of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Anti-Organized Crime Division.

Special Investigator Rodel Velez identified the two as Cayo Longcop, 38, and his cousin Ronaldo Longcop, 47, who were picked up at the group’s suspected safehouse at Bukid I Merville in Parañaque City.

The alleged leader of the Waray-Waray group, Noli del Monte, who is also wanted for a frustrated homicide case, evaded arrest.

The Waray-Waray group was believed to be behind the Banco de Oro robbery in Imus, Cavite, and a money changer’s shop at Metropoint Mall in Pasay City.

In an interview with the Inquirer, the Longcops denied that they were members of the group. Cayo said he was a house painter and Ronaldo told the police that he was a construction worker.

Search warrants for Del Monte’s house and two safehouses in Parañaque were issued by Manila Judge Marino dela Cruz Jr. after NBI agents conducted two grenade test buys, first from Del Monte then from Ronaldo Longcop.

Grenades, drugs paraphernalia, different weapons and ammunition were confiscated from Del Monte’s house and the safehouse.