Jeweler killed, robbed in Sta. Cruz

MANILA, Philippines - Two armed men riding in tandem on a motorcycle ambushed and robbed a businessman in Sta. Cruz, Manila Friday afternoon.

Police said jeweler Crisanto Cay, 36, was on his way home to Tondo on board a scooter when the suspects blocked his path along Alvarez street in Sta. Cruz.

The two suspects shot Cay in full view of passersby, then took his gold necklace and bracelet, a black bag reportedly containing an undetermined amount of money and jewelry, and his .45 caliber pistol as he lay on the ground.

Concerned citizens rushed Cay to the Metropolitan Hospital, where he was declared dead on arrival for multiple gunshot wounds.

Police Officer 3 Jay Santos said witnesses refused to cooperate with the police for fear of retaliation from the armed suspects.

Santos said the suspects could have been casing the victim prior to the ambush since they were aware of the money and jewelry he had on his person. Police also invited the victim’s family for background investigation.      – Nestor Etolle