German detective falls prey to rob gang

A German national who works as a private detective fell prey to a gang of holdup men and lost cash and valuables yesterday in Caloocan City.

Chief Inspector Jose Valencia, station investigation branch chief, identified the victim as Eduard Gruenauer, 49, single, and temporarily residing in Bagong Barrio, Caloocan .

Gruenauer lost a necklace and around P1,000 in cash.

PO3 Ferdinand Naval, officer on case, said two of the five men who robbed the victim were arrested while three of their companions managed to escape. He identified the arrested suspects as Vic Jake Verill, 22, of Balagtas street and Angelo Punzalan, 19, resident of Gladiola street, both of Bagong Silang in Caloocan City.

Investigation showed the German was walking alone at the corner of Reparo Road and G. De Jesus street at around 12:30 a.m. last Sunday when the group struck. They surrounded the victim and, poking a gun of undetermined caliber and a knife, demanded his cash and valuables.

The victim sought police assistance. The two suspects were nabbed a few hours later.