Philippines: Security forces rescue abducted Chinese Nationals in Pasay City, Metro Manila, Aug. 25

Event

Authorities rescued two kidnapped Chinese nationals and arrested three suspects in Pasay City, Metro Manila, the evening of Aug. 25. The assailants reportedly shot at and abducted the victims when they turned up at an unknown location for a job opportunity. There were no reports of injuries. The perpetrators subsequently detained the victims for three days and collected RMB 1.5 million in ransom from their relatives. Reports indicate that the perpetrators are employees of a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO). Authorities are still searching for two other suspects that fled during the security operation.

Context

The threat of kidnapping in the Philippines, including Metro Manila. remains high. Several organized crime syndicates that focus exclusively on kidnap-for-ransoms operate in and around Metro Manila. Criminal groups typically target workers or customers of POGO companies, Chinese nationals, East and South Asian expatriates, short-term travelers, and members of the Chinese-Filipino business community and their families. Criminal abductions of Westerners are less common, though the threat remains. Authorities rescue most victims, or kidnappers release them unharmed relatively quickly after receiving a ransom payment.