Fake Meralco bill collector nabbed

Police nabbed yesterday a fake Meralco bill collector who has allegedly victimized a number of customers in Tondo, Sta. Sta. Ana and Sampaloc districts while in the act of receiving electric bill payments from one of his victims.

Suspect Amado Orsolino Jr., 43, married, jobless, of Caloocan City, was even wearing a white Meralco polo shirt when apprehended. Recovered from him was a Meralco ID with his photo, but with the name of an "Alan Pascua." The suspect also yielded a diskette containing names of delinquent Meralco customers.

According to SPO2 Jessie Oliveros, the modus operandi of the suspect was to approach a delinquent Meralco customer, offering to fix electricity connection for a fee. The suspect usually charges P1,500 to P2,500 depending on the amount in the bill.

One of his victims identified as Glen Eguia, of Makiling street, Sampaloc reported the matter to the Meralco office.

Assisted by the police, Meralco officials videotaped the suspect while receiving marked money of P1,500 from Eguia.

The suspect had allegedly victimized some 10 households, according to Oliveros. A set of electrical gadgets was also recovered from him.

Charges of usurpation of authority and multiple estafa were filed against the suspect. — Nestor Etolle