3 held for 7-Eleven robberies

MANILA, Philippines — Three people allegedly involved in a series of robberies of 7-Eleven convenience stores in Quezon City were arrested yesterday.

Gary Caguioa, 43; Norman Belen, 28, and Joshua Niepes, 26, were apprehended by operatives of the Quezon City Police District (QCPD) at a checkpoint in Barangay Tatalon at 3:15 a.m.

QCPD director Brig. Gen. Redrico Maranan said the suspects have robbed at least eight 7-Eleven stores in Quezon City.

Police were on alert since Thursday night after an informant said the suspects planned to rob another convenience store.

The suspects were spotted near a 7-Eleven store in Barangay Roxas District in a sport utility vehicle.

The suspects hit a checkpoint signage as they tried to escape. The suspects were caught with three handguns, several bullets, three grenades, 7-Eleven uniforms, construction tools and improvised license plates.

Police are preparing charges of illegal possession of firearms and explosives against the suspects.