Suspect in burglary of US diplomat's house nabbed

MANILA, Philippines - Police arrested the principal suspect in the P350,000 burglary at the residence of an American diplomat in Makati City last May 16.

Southern Police District (SPD) director Chief Superintendent Jaime Calungsud said Makati City police officers cornered the suspect, Anthony Pomer, also known as Jojit Garces, at a building in San Lorenzo Village last Friday.

“The suspect appeared to be about to stage a new ‘Akyat-Bahay’ operation when collared by my men,” Calungsud said, noting that Pomer yielded a bolt cutter and several pliers and screwdrivers.

A witness, Reynaldo Pelicano, identified Pomer as the same man who entered the residence of consul Jerome Weddle, 38, last May 16.

According to Pelicano, he was washing the car of his employer near Weddle’s house in San Lorenzo Village when he saw Pomer enter.

Pelicano said he did not bother to check on Pomer, thinking that he was a visitor or friend of the American.

The witness brought his employer to his office. When he returned to his employer’s house, he was surprised to find village security guards and policemen at Weddle’s residence.

He later learned that a burglar broke into the diplomat’s residence and carted away P350,000 cash, jewelry and personal belongings.

Calungsud said the Makati City policemen brought Pelicano to their headquarters and Pelicano identified Pomer from the police rogue gallery.

Because of the Weddle burglary, village security guards were on alert for the suspect’s return.

Pomer chose to remain silent on the charges against him.

Calungsud ordered the filing of robbery charges against Pomer before the Makati City prosecutor’s office. – Non Alquitran