Messenger killed, robbed after bank withdrawal

Six armed men robbed and killed a 55-year-old messenger shortly after he withdrew P130,000 from a bank in Makati City yesterday morning.

According to reports, Ecolaser Corp. messenger Armando Cortez withdrew cash from Metrobank’s Sampaloc branch in Barangay San Antonio and was walking towards the firm’s office when he was intercepted by six men on motorcycles at the corner of Kamagong and Tangile streets at 11:50 a.m.

When he refused to hand over what he was carrying, one of the suspects allegedly shot him at point-blank range, grabbed the money, and fled towards Manila.

Cortez was pronounced dead upon arrival at the Makati Medical Center.

Makati City police chief Superintendent Gilbert Cruz said the robbers were reported to be riding a black DT Yamaha Endura bearing control number 9458, a Honda XRM, and a scooter.

He said they already have leads on the identities of the robbers, but refused to give details.

Criminal groups, for the past months, have reportedly been resorting to robbing bank clients as an easier way to make money instead of actually robbing banks.

The Philippine National Police, through the National Capital Region Police Office, said it is focusing on the problem.

Cruz recently urged bank managers and bank security chiefs in Makati City to ensure the safety and security of their clients inside and outside bank premises, particularly those who withdraw large amounts of cash.

He told some 400 banks to install more closed-circuit television cameras and reminded them of their responsibility to provide security even after clients leave their establishments by offering them a ride or an escort. He also called on the City Council to pass an ordinance that will require banks to do so.