Grenade-lobbing suspect finally falls

Operatives from the Quezon City Police District (QCPD) have arrested the motorcycle driver allegedly involved in a grenade-throwing incident at the parking area of White House Spa in Barangay Obrero on Wednesday afternoon.

The incident, which occurred around 1:50 p.m., caused property damage.

QCPD officer-in-charge P/Col. Randy Glenn Silvio reported that a follow-up operation conducted around 7:50 p.m. Saturday in De Guzman Street, Barangay Marulas, Valenzuela City, led to the apprehension of the suspect.

The operation was carried out by a joint team from the QCPD District Intelligence Division, Criminal Investigation and Detection Unit, District Special Operations Unit, District Anti-Carnapping Unit, CIDG-QC, Kamuning Police Station 10, and Valenzuela City Police Station operatives.

Silvio identified the arrested individual as alias “John Paul,” a local clothing brand seller and resident of Valenzuela City. He is believed to have been the driver of the motorcycle involved in the incident.

Authorities recovered a white Honda PCX motorcycle with plate number UHK 537 and its remote key, a black SEC half-face helmet, a khaki camouflage jacket, a pair of black and white slippers, a black hoodie jacket, and a pair of gray jogger pants, which are believed to have been worn by the back rider, identified as Adam Reginaldo.

Charges of arson in relation to Republic Act 9516 (Illegal Possession of Explosives) will be filed against alias “John Paul” before the Quezon City Prosecutor’s Office.

Meanwhile, a manhunt is underway to locate and arrest Reginaldo, an SK Kagawad (youth council member) and resident of Barangay 152, Caloocan City; Arnelly Bemejo, who allegedly acted as the middleman; and an unidentified individual believed to be the mastermind behind the attack.

All three remain at large.

“The QCPD remains committed to solving this case and bringing all those involved to justice. Hence, we urge the public to support our efforts by reporting any relevant information to the nearest police station or through the QC Helpline 122,” Silvio said.