Hustler victimizing foreigners nabbed

ANGELES CITY -- A 50-year-old man tagged as a notorious hustler was arrested after allegedly victimizing an Australian national last Thursday.

The suspect identified as Fernando Caparas Balibat, 50, of H13 Citicenter, Barangay Tabun, this city, was charged with robbery with violence and intimidation against person.

Balibat allegedly robbed Shane Herbert Henderson, 44, an Australian national some US$500, said Chief Inspector Luisito Tan, Police Station 4 chief.

Tan revealed the modus operandi of the suspect's group engaged in swindling activities preying on foreigners.

Henderson and his friend were walking along Narciso Street in Barangay Malabanias here when a man, a purported member of Balibat's group, approached them.

After a few minutes, Balibat reportedly arrived and introduced himself to the victim as an immigration officer.

Henderson was asked to present document to justify his stay in the country. But after pulling out his wallet, the suspect reportedly forcibly grabbed the foreigner's money amounting to US$500.

With the timely arrival of responding police officers, Balibat was arrested.

But the suspect's companion, later identified as Emmanuel Punzalan, eluded arrest.

Balibat is now detained at the Police Station 4. The court set a bail of P120,000 for him.