Manila cops collar 2 fake traffic enforcers in Tondo

MANILA, Philippines – Manila policemen accosted early Tuesday morning two men posing as traffic enforcers in Tondo.

Manila Police District (MPD) identified the suspects as Noel Silva, 37; and Jay-V III Gatang, 36.

Police said they responded to a concerned citizen’s complaint about two traffic enforcers flagging down motorists along Jose Abad Santos Avenue and extorting money.

The two suspects, claiming to be members of Manila Traffic and Parking Bureau (MTPB), were caught in the act of directing traffic in the area by responding policemen.

Upon questioning, the suspects failed to present any valid MTPB identity document, prompting authorities to arrest them.

According to MPD, the same suspects were arrested last year during an entrapment operation also for extortion. The two allegedly extorted money from a truck driver in Tondo.

Silva and Gantang were locked up at Morines Police Station jail pending filing of charges for violating Article 177 of the Revised Penal Code or usurpation of authority or official functions. /kga