POLICE have issued a warning to the public about the alleged new modus operandi of criminals to extort money from unsuspecting individuals.
Chief Inspector Louie Gonzaga, San Simon town police chief, disclosed the alleged technique of criminals who are posing either as a high-ranking official of the Philippine National Police or other government agencies, or a member of the judicial court to extort money.
“They will inform their victim that an arrest warrant was issued against them due to an outstanding balance on credit card or postpaid telecommunications bill, or other possible legal problems that they are involved. The scammers will then ask for money in exchange for assistance to resolve the supposed problem,” Gonzaga explained.
Once the victims believe and agree to the “settlement,” Gonzaga said that the scammers usually ask them to send the money through Smart Padala or other remittance shops but not banks to protect their true identity.
Gonzaga reminded the public to be wary of this modus and avoid transacting with unfamiliar individuals, especially if they are facing legal charges to avoid falling prey into such kinds of illegal activities.
“Please keep in mind that money is not the best way to settle a legal matter. Please be wary of such activities which aims to fool and extort money from people,” he said.
He also urged individuals who became victims or those that will experience the said modus to report to nearest police stations to penalize the suspects and avoid victimizing other people.