Five Arrested in Sta. Cruz Mall for Swindling Senior with Fake Milk Products

Five suspected swindlers were arrested after allegedly deceiving a senior citizen inside a mall in Sta Cruz, Manila by selling fake milk products at a discounted price. The suspects were apprehended by personnel of the Manila Police District Station 3 after mall security requested police assistance following a commotion at the mall. Authorities said the group attempted to escape through the parking area after allegedly taking P5,000 in cash from the elderly victim. According to Manila Police District (MPD) Blumentritt Police Community Precinct Chief Police Captain Ferdinand Cayabyab, the suspects were intercepted while trying to flee in a sport utility vehicle, which was blocked by mall security personnel and responding police officers. Police said the suspects, who are reportedly from Cavite and Pampanga, targeted senior citizens by offering milk products at prices significantly lower than market value. The items were suspected to be counterfeit, and the suspects allegedly used bundles of fake money to convince victims that the products had already been sold to other buyers. After receiving payment, the suspects attempted to flee. The scheme failed due to the swift response of mall security and Manila police officers. The five suspects are currently detained at Manila Police District Station 3 and are facing charges of estafa through swindling. Authorities said further investigation is ongoing to determine other possible additional violations related to the sale of counterfeit goods.