Operatives from the Manila Traffic and Parking Bureau arrested two former Manila traffic enforcers after they were caught extorting money from trucks passing along Quirino Avenue in Pandacan, Manila.
The suspects — identified as Rocky Macarian and Jeromie Millel, both residents of Manila — were nabbed following the operation conducted by the Manila Police District-Special Mayor's Reaction Team.
MTPB Traffic Operation chief Wilson Chan disclosed that they have received numerous complaints against the suspects including their alleged stalking and robbery of drivers of vehicles, mainly trailer trucks, and delivery vans.
The two were detained for violating both Article 179 of the Revised Penal Code and Article 177 of the Penal Code, as amended by Republic Act 379 or the Illegal Use of Uniform and Insignia.
Reports disclosed that the two suspects were questioned by the proper MTPB and SMaRT officials but tried to escape as they were unable to produce their identification or mission orders.
According to Chan, Millel was allegedly arrested for the second time. He was first nabbed in 2019 and served jail time for six months. He claimed that although MTPB administration is working to improve the department's reputation, it has been damaged by individuals like them.
Chan warned drivers, particularly those driving delivery trucks, trailer trucks, and other commercial vehicles, that if someone approaches them, particularly late at night or early in the morning, MTPB enforcers can check for identification and issue mission orders to confirm their legitimacy.
