A motorcycle robbery gang disguised as delivery platform riders was recently apprehended in Makati City, with four men aged between 23 and 26 arrested for multiple late-night robberies. They wore uniforms from legitimate transport platforms like "Joyride" and "MoveIt," deceiving their targets, specifically targeting individuals carrying bags, night-shift workers, or people spending on payday.
The Director of the National Capital Region Police Office, Major General Anthony Abellan, noted that the gang rode two motorcycles, patrolling the main streets of Makati to strategically follow and rob their targets. They wore delivery platform uniforms to lower the victims' guard, with a well-planned and highly organized operation.
"These uniforms look exactly like those of regular riders, and the suspects even wore plain clothes underneath. After committing the crimes, they would quickly change outfits to evade the police," said Abellan.
During the arrest operation, the police seized a hand grenade, a .38 caliber revolver, a replica pistol, and several ride-sharing platform uniforms. The suspects are now facing multiple charges including robbery, illegal possession of firearms, violation of the firearms control law, and possession of explosives.
Captain Janibes Artista, spokesperson for the Makati police, stated that the police are collaborating with various delivery and transport platforms to investigate the source of the uniforms and to develop mechanisms to identify fake riders.
"We will continue to investigate whether there are other gang members or similar methods being used, and we urge the public to be vigilant when going out at night. If you encounter any suspicious riders, please call the emergency hotline immediately," added Artista.
The police emphasized that they are intensifying their investigation into more cases possibly involving this gang, while also strengthening night patrols and rider identity verification in the metropolitan area to prevent similar disguised crimes from occurring again.
