Police in Pampanga successfully dismantled a kidnap-for-ransom group targeting Korean nationals, rescuing a 57-year-old Korean identified as “Mr. Park” and arresting three suspects after a high-stakes operation on October 24-25, 2024.
The abduction occurred on October 24, when Mr. Park, a resident of Timog Park in Angeles City, met the suspects in Barangay Mabiga, Mabalacat City, for a planned car purchase around 10:00 PM. Upon arrival, Mr. Park and his brother were accosted by three armed men who forcibly took Mr. Park in a black Kia Carnival, later sending the brother a photograph of him tied up and blindfolded with a ransom demand via Telegram.
A rapid response from the Mabalacat City Police Intelligence Unit, in coordination with the Pampanga Provincial Intelligence Unit (PIU), led to the arrest of Paula Bianca Julian and Renan Coronel of Mabalacat City, and John Jacob Simbulan of Capas, Tarlac. Three other suspects remain at large, including alleged mastermind Tweenie Salas from Angeles City and associates John Lex Ubane and Herson Barroga.
Further investigation revealed the group’s involvement in previous crimes, including the kidnapping of two more Korean nationals, “Mr. Nam” and “Ms. Moon,” from whom they extorted PHP 800,000 before abandoning them in Capas, Tarlac.
PRO3 Director PBGEN Redrico A. Maranan praised the quick action by the authorities, underscoring the Philippine National Police’s commitment to public safety. “This operation demonstrates our resolve to dismantle criminal networks that threaten our communities,” Maranan stated, urging the public to report any suspicious activity.
With the arrests and charges filed, authorities are hopeful these efforts will reduce crimes targeting Korean nationals and strengthen community trust in law enforcement.