The Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) announced on Wednesday the arrest of five suspected members of the Salisi Gang, known for targeting passengers at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport – Terminal 3.
This notorious 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.
MIAA General Manager Eric Jose Ines reported that the arrests followed weeks of surveillance conducted by the Airport Police Department (APD), in close coordination with NAIA’s private operator, the New NAIA Infra Corp (NNIC).
Those arrested are believed to be linked to several thefts that occurred between April 28 and May 5, primarily targeting sleeping or distracted passengers during late-night security shift changes.
“Their tactic involved one member distracting victims while others stole unattended bags or devices,” Ines said.
While five gang members were apprehended, two others managed to escape during a brief chase at the airport.
The APD recovered two mobile phones and a laptop from the arrested suspects, who are currently in police custody and have been charged at the Pasay City Prosecutor’s Office.
Authorities are also investigating the suspects for potential connections to other crimes in Metro Manila.
Ines praised the APD team for their success, stating, “This successful arrest reflects the dedication of our airport police and our strong collaboration with NNIC, and underscores our commitment to safeguarding all passengers while making clear that we will not tolerate criminal activity at NAIA.”
APD Chief Col. Bing Jose urged passengers to remain vigilant, avoid leaving their belongings unattended, and report any suspicious activity to uniformed officers.
He also encouraged victims of similar incidents to visit the APD Headquarters, assuring the public that airport police are doing everything possible to ensure passenger safety and are always ready to assist.
Last year, MIAA decided to remove gang chairs from Terminal 3’s arrival area, as it had become a sleeping area, exposing well-wishers to potential dangers posed by individuals with criminal intentions, particularly members of the Salisi Gang.
The public is advised to avoid crowded areas and limit their time in the departure or arrival zones, as the presence of loiterers and individuals sleeping on the floors has become a significant issue for maintaining order and security.
MIAA officials acknowledged that allowing too many people in the area complicates the differentiation between legitimate well-wishers and those with malicious or criminal intentions.
In the past, there have been theft cases conducted by criminal elements who blend in with those waiting for passengers.
NAIA Terminal 3 is the only major terminal where outsiders are permitted to stay for extended periods.
One reported victim was a Japanese national who told police that his hand-carry bag was stolen from his trolley at bay 13 of the terminal’s north-wing arrival area.
The bag contained US dollars, Japanese Yen (equivalent to 170,000 Philippine pesos), three credit cards, a Canon camera, and his return plane ticket to Japan.
Additionally, an overseas Filipino worker reported that her Longchamp bag disappeared while she was having lunch with her family at a fastfood restaurant in the arrival area. The bag contained cash, her passport, cards, and other valuables.