Customs broker kidnapped

Armed men allegedly abducted a Customs broker at Manila’s South Harbor yesterday afternoon.

Case investigator Police Officer 3 Cris Celestial said a witness saw Albert Illesca walking to his parked vehicle when at least four armed men blocked his path and forced him into a white Toyota Fortuner (XJJ-765). The abduction occurred at past 3 p.m. in front of the Velco building along 24th street, Celestial said.

Celestial refused to provide further details pending notification of the victim’s family. However, he said a witness is now in police custody.

Ermita police station chief Superintendent Rogelio Rosales said he has formed a team to go after the alleged abductors. He said he will coordinate with the Police Anti-Crime Emergency Response (PACER) team, which specifically deals with kidnappings. – Nestor Etolle