Four individuals were arrested in a buy-bust operation for a fake gold bar conducted by the Porac Municipal Police Station (MPS) at Sitio Pidpid, Barangay Manuali, around 12:10 AM on March 16, 2025.
The suspects, reportedly involved in multiple criminal activities, were identified as alias “Eva,” alias “Dex,” and alias “Arjay” of Barangay Patling, Capas, Tarlac, and alias “Ted” of Barangay Inararo, Porac. They are also allegedly linked to cases of estafa (swindling), attempted murder, and violations of RA 10591 (Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act), RA 9516 (Illegal Possession of Explosives), and the COMELEC Omnibus Election Code.
During the operation, armed individuals opened fire on the police, prompting authorities to return fire and restrain the attackers.
Recovered from the scene were several pieces of evidence, including a fake gold bar, marked money (genuine bills and boodle money), a .38 caliber revolver with fired cartridge casing and live ammunition, an improvised shotgun with fired shotshell and live shells, a fragmentation grenade, a jungle bolo, and three motorcycles—one of which had a “kolong-kolong” sidecar.
Further investigation linked the suspects to a fatal stabbing incident on March 11, 2025, at the same location. The victim, identified as Edgar, 55, was allegedly stabbed to death after refusing to pay for undelivered gold.
PBGen. Jean S. Fajardo, Regional Director of Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3), commended the operatives for their swift and decisive action, emphasizing that law enforcement remains steadfast in its duty to protect the public.
“This successful operation is a testament to our unwavering commitment to justice and public safety. Criminals who think they can deceive, harm, and terrorize our communities will be met with the full force of the law. Our police force stands firm in its mission—those who threaten the safety of our people will be held accountable,” PBGen. Fajardo said.
The arrested suspects and confiscated evidence are now in police custody for proper documentation and the filing of appropriate charges.
