An attempted robbery occurred near a well-known mall in Pasay City, Metro Manila. A Chinese businessman surnamed Ke revealed that he was almost robbed by suspects resembling "motorcycle villains" after hosting a dinner for relatives and friends.
Mr. Ke mentioned that he held a party at a large buffet restaurant next to the mall that evening. While waiting for a car with three relatives and friends by the roadside afterwards, a suspect dressed in a specific uniform, posing as a ride-hailing motorcycle driver, approached rapidly with an accomplice, attempting to snatch the shoulder bag he was carrying.
Fortunately, Mr. Ke reacted quickly. He sidestepped and protected his shoulder bag with his arms while shouting loudly. The unsuccessful suspect then fled the scene by motorcycle.
However, this incident occurred just a few meters away from a security booth, yet the security did not intervene or offer any help.
It is noteworthy that Mr. Ke was dressed simply and is physically fit, while the Filipino lady accompanying him was dressed extravagantly and carrying a designer bag, yet she was not targeted.
He suspects that he was targeted by criminals after paying for the meal in cash and frequently interacting with relatives and friends. These suspects might have been monitoring the surroundings, waiting for an opportunity to commit the crime.
At the time of the incident, the area around the mall was crowded with people and vehicles. Mr. Ke urges overseas Chinese in the Philippines to be vigilant: avoid flaunting wealth or using cash for payments, especially in public places, and keep a low profile.
Additionally, he reminds everyone to be cautious of individuals disguised as ride-hailing motorcycle drivers, even in crowded areas, and to always be aware of their surroundings.
He also urges merchants to enhance security training to ensure that security personnel can respond promptly and provide necessary assistance in similar incidents, thereby enhancing public safety.
