Camp Olivas, City of San Fernando, Pampanga— A swift police response led to the rescue of a Korean national and the arrest of multiple suspects following a kidnapping incident in Barangay Mabiga, Mabalacat, Pampanga on the night of October 24, 2024.
The victim, 57-year-old ‘Mr. Park”, a resident of Timog Park in Angeles City, was reportedly abducted during a planned car transaction with the suspects.
According to a report by the victim’s brother, they had arranged to meet with an individual for a car purchase on Camachile Street, Mabalacat City, around 10:00 PM. Upon arrival, they were confronted by three armed men who forcibly took Mr. Park into a black Kia Carnival with conduction number AP 338A.
Shortly after, the suspects sent him a photograph of his brother tied up and blindfolded via Telegram, demanding a huge amount of money for ransom.
A hot pursuit operation on October 25 led by the Intelligence Unit of Mabalacat City Police Station along with personnel from the Pampanga Provincial Intelligence Unit (PIU) resulted in the arrest of the following suspects: Paula Bianca Julian, Renan Coronel, both residents of Mabalacat City, Pampanga and, John Jacob Simbulan, resident of Capas, Tarlac.
During the custodial investigation, the suspects revealed the identities of three other individuals allegedly involved and still at large namely: Tweenie Salas, resident of Angeles City, Pampanga (alleged mastermind), John Lex Ubane, and Herson Barroga, both residents of Mabalacat City.
Further investigation revealed that the same suspects were also involved in a series of other crimes, including robbery, carnapping, and kidnapping of two additional Korean nationals identified as Mr. Nam and Ms. Moon.
In this incident, the suspects reportedly seized approximately PHP 800,000 in cash from the victims before abandoning them at an inn in Capas, Tarlac.
PRO3 Director PBGen Redrico Maranan commended the swift response of the operating teams and emphasized the PNP’s commitment to safeguarding the public in line with the mantra Makabagong Pulis sa Makabagong Panahon, Respetado ang Mamamayan, Disiplinado ang Kapulisan.
He stated, “This operation demonstrates our resolve to dismantle criminal networks that threaten the peace and security of our communities. The vigilance of the reporting party and the prompt action of our operatives were instrumental in securing the victim’s safe recovery. With the arrest of members, identification of leaders and subsequent filing of criminal complaints against them, crimes against Korean nationals will be lessened.”
Maranan further encouraged the public to report suspicious activities to law enforcement, affirming the PNP’s dedication to public safety and community trust.
