A swift police response led to the rescue of a kidnapped Korean national and the arrest of several suspects involved in a kidnap-for-ransom scheme on October 24 in Barangay Mabiga, Mabalacat, Pampanga. The victim, identified as Mr. Park, 57, of Timog Park, Angeles City, was reportedly abducted during a planned car transaction with the suspects.

According to reports, Mr. Park’s brother had arranged to meet a prospective car seller on Camachile Street, Mabalacat City, around 10:00 PM. Upon their arrival, three armed men confronted them and forcibly took Mr. Park in a black Kia Carnival with conduction number AP 338A. Shortly after, the suspects sent Mr. Park’s brother a photograph of him blindfolded and tied up, along with a ransom demand via Telegram.

A prompt operation led by the Mabalacat City Police Station’s Intelligence Unit and the Pampanga Provincial Intelligence Unit (PIU) resulted in the arrest of three suspects: Paula Bianca Julian and Renan Coronel of Mabalacat City, and John Jacob Simbulan of Capas, Tarlac.

During the investigation, the suspects identified three additional accomplices still at large: Tweenie Salas of Angeles City, suspected to be the mastermind, and John Lex Ubane and Herson Barroga, both from Mabalacat City.

Further inquiries revealed that the group was also involved in other criminal activities, including the recent kidnapping of two Korean nationals, Mr. Nam and Ms. Moon. In that incident, the suspects reportedly stole approximately PHP 800,000 before releasing the victims at an inn in Capas, Tarlac.

PRO3 Director PBGEN Redrico A. Maranan praised the swift response by the police teams, reinforcing the PNP’s commitment to community safety under the principle Makabagong Pulis sa Makabagong Panahon. “This operation shows our determination to dismantle criminal networks that threaten community peace and security. The vigilant reporting and timely action of our operatives were key to securing the victim’s safe return. With these arrests and criminal complaints, we expect a decrease in crimes against Korean nationals,” Maranan stated.

He encouraged the public to report suspicious activities to law enforcement, underscoring the PNP’s dedication to public safety and community trust.