The Philippine National Police (PNP) arrested an Iranian national in Makati City after he was allegedly involved in a fake gold transaction worth around P18.66 million, authorities said Saturday.
The arrest was carried out by personnel of the Makati City Police Station under the Southern Police District following a reported fraudulent transaction inside a hotel building in Makati on Friday night, May 15.
According to police reports, the suspect allegedly attempted to sell 60 supposed gold bars to several buyers during the transaction.
Authorities said the buyers later verified that the gold bars, along with their accompanying certificates of authenticity, were allegedly fake, prompting them to seek police assistance.
Police said tensions briefly escalated during the confrontation between the parties before responding officers intervened and took the suspect into custody.
Recovered during the operation were the alleged fake gold bars, purported falsified certificates of authenticity, a 9mm pistol with a magazine and ammunition, and a cellular phone believed to be connected to the transaction.
Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. commended the responding officers for their swift action and reminded the public to exercise caution in high-value transactions.
“Pinaaalalahanan natin ang ating mga kababayan na maging mapanuri sa anumang transaksyon, lalo na kung malaking halaga ang nakasalalay dito. Mabilis na rumesponde ang ating kapulisan upang matiyak ang kaligtasan ng mga involved at maayos na maiproseso ang insidente ayon sa batas,” Nartatez said.
The PNP chief also emphasized the importance of professionalism and due process in police operations.
“Mahalaga ang tiwala ng publiko. Kaya naman tuloy-tuloy ang ating pagpapatupad ng batas with professionalism, restraint, and respect for due process. Higit sa lahat, mabilis nating natutugunan ang mga ulat at napangangalagaan ang publiko laban sa panlilinlang at iba pang paglabag sa batas,” he added.
Authorities are preparing appropriate charges against the suspect as further investigation continues.
The PNP said it would continue intensifying efforts against fraudulent schemes and other criminal activities targeting the public.