Korean loses P2M to burglars

CEBU, Philippines - Close to two million worth of cash and valuables were lost to unknown burglars who ransacked a house owned by a Korean National at Unit 4, Quadroflex, Friendship Street, Barangay Capitol Site, Cebu City on Monday morning.

Hyun Jung Park, 48, woke up at around 6 a.m. and was shocked when she discovered her room ransacked. Alarmed, she phoned the Fuente Police Station who immediately sent assistance.

PO3 Achilles Sanchez told The FREEMAN that the unknown thieves entered the victim’s house by climbing the gate and into the second floor’s terrace.

Once at the second floor, the thieves easily gained entrance through an open sliding door and into the master’s bedroom.  

During the burglary, Park was at the adjacent room sleeping with her child. The two are the only ones living in the house.

In the inventory submitted by Park, she claimed she lost around P1, 458, 000 worth of jewelry ranging from precious stones to expensive watches. The burglars also reportedly stole $1,200 and W50, 000 or around P54, 000.

Cebu City Police Office Director Melvin Ramon Buenafe yesterday urged the public to be more cautious during the next few weeks as the entire country celebrates Christmas and the New Year.

He said that similar cases may increase as various lawless elements flock to Cebu City for “greener opportunities.”

“We are expecting the influx of criminal elements from other provinces,” he said.

That is why, according to him, they are increasing their police visibility including the conduct of check points, patrols and saturation drives among others.

Buenafe likewise urged the public to help them in spotting possible criminals in their respected areas.

“Kun duna silay mamatikdan nga mga kadudahan nga mga tawo sa ilang lugar angay ila dayon nang i-report namo,” he said, adding that they will be the one who will conduct back ground checks on them. – (FREEMAN)