Pieces of evidence recovered from a man who was arrested on Feb. 23, 2025 after posing as a National Bureau of Investigation agent. The suspect extorted PHP10 million from a Chinese businessman in exchange for the release of 20 detained Chinese nationals. (Photo courtesy Southern Police District)
A man impersonating an NBI officer was apprehended after extorting PHP10 million from a Chinese businessman by promising to free 20 detained compatriots.
According to Brig. Gen. Anthony Aberin, chief of the National Capital Region Police Office, Pasay City police arrested 50-year-old “Crisanto” on February 23 at a Tondo intersection in Manila while he was driving his newly purchased SUV.
A Southern Police District report revealed that on February 20, 38-year-old Chen, the complainant, handed over PHP10 million to Crisanto at a seafood restaurant in Pasay. The suspect had claimed to be an intelligence officer from the National Bureau of Investigation and promised to secure the release of 20 Chinese nationals detained during an operation at a KTV bar in Parañaque City. However, Crisanto failed to honor his commitment.
Chen had been introduced to Crisanto by two Bureau of Immigration employees, who later assisted the police in tracking him down. During the investigation, authorities recovered PHP1 million in cash, a portion of the alleged bribe money meant for the release of the detained individuals.
Crisanto is currently detained at the Pasay City Police Station as he awaits the formal filing of charges for estafa and usurpation of authority under Article 177 of the Revised Penal Code.
Aberin urged the public to remain vigilant and to verify the identities of anyone claiming to represent a government agency. “If something seems suspicious, report it immediately. Awareness and timely action are key in preventing fraud and ensuring public safety,” he stated.