Businesswoman loses PHP 150,000 in Capiz holdup

By Felipe V. Celino

ROXAS CITY, Capiz — Two unidentified suspects allegedly carted away about PHP 150,000 in cash from a businesswoman during a holdup Wednesday evening, May 13, in Barangay Tacas, Pontevedra, Capiz.

An investigation by the Pontevedra Municipal Police Station showed that the incident happened around 8:15 p.m. as the victim, identified only as alias Inday, 76, was about to get off a tricycle in front of her house.

Police said the suspects suddenly grabbed her bag, which contained PHP 150,000 in cash from the income of her store at the town’s public market.

One of the suspects allegedly fired a gun after the victim’s husband, identified only as alias Ryan, 76, who was also in the tricycle, tried to chase them.

Pontevedra police chief Capt. Dennis Losbañes said more than two persons may have been involved in the incident, including others who allegedly served as lookouts.

Based on witness accounts, one of the two suspects had three other companions when they parted ways.

Losbañes said the suspects fled on a motorcycle toward a nearby hotel in the village, where they removed their jackets and bonnets.

Police said the suspects later fled on a tricycle, leaving behind a black Suzuki Skydrive motorcycle at the hotel.

Police are processing the evidence and coordinating with the Land Transportation Office and the Highway Patrol Group to verify the ownership of the motorcycle.

The Pontevedra Municipal Police Station is investigating the incident, while a hot pursuit operation is ongoing.