Operatives from the National Bureau of Investigation in Central Visayas (NBI-7) successfully apprehended four out of five individuals involved in a multi-million peso swindling case during an entrapment operation in Cebu City.
Entrapment Leads to Arrest of Four Suspects
The arrests took place on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, following a complaint from a company based in Mandaue City. The victim reported being defrauded of a staggering P4 million after accepting a property in Barangay Mambaling, Cebu City, as collateral for a loan. The suspects, identified as two women and two men all of adult age and residents of Cebu City, were captured. One accomplice, known as Maritess, remains at large and is currently being sought by authorities.
Deception Unraveled: Fake Title Exposed
The scam began when the suspects convinced the victim that the property was legitimate, presenting a Transfer Certificate of Title (TCT) they claimed was under the name of one of the group members. To secure the deal, the victim initially received the property as a pawn. However, suspicion arose, prompting a verification check with the Cebu City Register of Deeds.
The investigation revealed a critical flaw in the suspects' scheme: no title was registered under the name they provided. The document presented to the client was confirmed to be completely forged.
Sting Operation Seals Their Fate
Given the large sum involved, the victim sought the assistance of the NBI. Agents then orchestrated an entrapment operation. The plan involved the victim making an additional payment of P500,000 to the suspects. The exchange was set to occur within a conference room at the victim's office, where NBI operatives were strategically positioned.
The operation proceeded as planned, leading to the successful apprehension of the four present suspects. They are now under the custody of the NBI-7 and face charges for violation of Article 315 (a) of the Revised Penal Code in relation to Article 172, or Estafa through Falsification of Public Documents.
Public Reminder Amid Festive Season
Following the operation, the NBI office issued a stern reminder to the public to exercise heightened vigilance against fraud, especially during the Christmas and New Year season. The agency emphasized the importance of thoroughly verifying documents and dealing only with reputable parties in any financial transaction, particularly those involving real estate or large loans.
