Isang 72-taong-gulang na lola ang naging biktima ng isang land registration scam matapos makipagtransaksyon sa isang lalaki na nagpapanggap bilang dating empleyado ng Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). Ang National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) ay nahuli ang suspek, na diumano'y nanloko sa kanya ng P700,000.
Mga Detalye ng Scam
The suspect promised to leverage his connections to facilitate the registration of the victim’s land property located in Rizal province. However, investigators later confirmed that he had no actual ties to the DENR or the Land Registration Authority.
Mayroon siyang maling representasyon na kaya niyang iproseso ang lahat ng mga dokumento na sa huli ay magdadala sa pagpaparehistro ng lupa kung saan matatagpuan ang bahay ng aming nagreklamo.
(cite: Palmer Mallari, NBI Spokesperson)
Mallari also stated that after failing to deliver on his promises, the suspect fled. Following a complaint filed with the NBI’s Organized and Transnational Crimes Division (OTCD), charges of estafa were filed, leading to an arrest warrant.
Tugon ng mga Awtoridad
The suspect had been evading capture since the arrest warrant was issued months ago. The NBI utilized technical surveillance to locate him, confirming he had reportedly victimized others using the same approach.
On July 8, law enforcement apprehended the fraudster during an entrapment operation in Marikina City. He is currently in custody and is set to face charges in court.
This case serves as a reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by senior citizens in the Philippines, particularly regarding land transactions. The prevalence of such scams emphasizes the need for greater public awareness and protection.