5 'spitting' theft suspects charged

MANILA, Philippines - The Manila Police District has filed theft charges against five alleged members of the Laguna-based “Dura-Dura” theft gang, whose modus operandi is to use “dura” or spit to distract their prospective victims.

In his complaint to police, Gregorio Bibat, 33, an overseas seaman, said he and his girlfriend were on board a passenger jeepney on Sept. 30 when one of the suspects repeatedly nudged him to call his attention to spit on the vehicle seat.

Little did he know that the trick was meant to divert his attention as another suspect reportedly picked his back pocket and stole a white envelope containing $4,200, according to Chief Inspector Edgar Carpio, who heads the theft and robbery section of the Manila Police District.

In a police rogue gallery, Bibat recognized five of the suspects – Erick Arquidas, 35; Ronel Rubian, 35; Rosano Rubian, 19; Aldrin Manalang, 28; and one alias “Tony Mata.”

Carpio said the gang is based in Laguna but operates in Metro Manila during the holiday season.

Police officers, led by SPO2 Renato Perez, chanced upon Arquidas and Alvino Estrada along Taft Avenue “apparently casing their prospective victim.”

At the police headquarters, Bibat positively identified Arquidas as one of the suspects who took his money. Police only filed a case of vagrancy against Estrada since Bibat failed to identify him.