CIDG neutralizes two suspected jewelry robbery gang members

DAVAO CITY– Two suspected members of a criminal syndicate involved in robbing jewelry sellers were neutralized while a suspect was arrested in a Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) operation on Monday, February 10, 2025, at Cidnyland Resort, Sitio Sakura, Barangay Mahabang Parang, Angono, Rizal.

Brigadier General Nicolas Torre, CIDG Director, confirmed that the identities of the two fatalities are still being established. Still, the arrested suspect identified one of the deceased as Patrick Regalado Almaza, 25, a resident of No. 19 Dama De Noche, Manuela Subdivision, Meycauayan, Bulacan.

The operation was launched following complaints filed by two jewelry sellers, Jennieby Pineda and Augusto Pineda, who reported a series of robberies targeting online jewelry sellers.

CIDG operatives conducted an entrapment operation against the robbery-holdup group, which had been targeting online sellers of jewelry and golf accessories. However, the suspects became suspicious that they were being entrapped, leading to an armed confrontation.

In the ensuing gunfight, two suspects were neutralized, while one was arrested.

Authorities immediately coordinated with the Rizal Provincial Forensic Unit to conduct a scene of the crime investigation. As of this writing, crime scene processing is still ongoing.

The CIDG continues its investigation to determine if the group is linked to other robbery cases targeting online sellers, and to track down other possible accomplices.

The public is urged to remain cautious when conducting online transactions, especially when meeting buyers in person, and to report suspicious activities to law enforcement authorities immediately.