Police arrested Wednesday one of those responsible for the theft of Commission on Elections (Comelec) chairman George Erwin Garcia’s bag at a local restaurant in Pasay City.
The Southern Police District arrested a 44-year-old suspect, known by her alias ‘Hazel,’ around 2 p.m. along Zapote Road in Las Piñas City through a follow-up and backtracking operation. She was positively identified via CCTV footage as one of those behind the incident.
Garcia’s stolen bag containing identification cards and a mobile phone was recovered, but the cash was no longer found.
The suspects are believed to be members of the notorious Salisi Gang involved in similar incidents in south Metro Manila.
Authorities are continuing their investigation to identify any additional accomplices and recover the stolen money.
The arrest came after Mayor Imelda Calixto-Rubiano tapped the local police to promptly investigate and go after those responsible for the theft.
Initial police reports indicated that at least six persons were responsible and suspected to be members of the ‘Salisi Gang,’ a group known for distracting victims while accomplices steal unattended bags or devices.”
“I have given stern instructions to ensure a thorough investigation and to bring the perpetrators to justice,” Rubiano said in a statement.
She added that the Pasay City Police “is fully engaged in tracking down the group and we are working diligently to apprehend all individuals involved.”
The mayor emphasized the importance of swift action to ensure the safety of citizens and maintain public trust in law enforcement. She called for increased patrols in crowded areas to deter similar incidents in the future.
Reports showed that the theft happened at a local restaurant along Roxas Boulevard Service Road around 1 p.m. after Garcia attended a Senate hearing on an anti-political dynasty bill.
Garcia’s bag contained cash, a mobile phone, and identification cards. He was waiting for his order at the establishment together with other guests when six persons arrived, posing as customers.
The group managed to steal the bag, which was placed beside Garcia’s chair. A few moments later, Garcia discovered that his bag was missing.
CCTV footage showed that the suspects fled onboard a vehicle.
Police said the suspects were previously involved in similar “salisi” incidents.
The notorious Salisi Gang operates in various public places such as malls, restaurants, airports, fast food joints, and computer shops, waiting for opportunities to prey on distracted victims. They employ tactics to divert attention while others steal from unattended bags or devices.
