The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) arrested a woman for allegedly deceiving prospective buyers of property in a subdivision project that turned out to be unregistered.

The operation was in line with the directive from NBI Director Jaime Santiago to boost operations against criminality, and was conducted by the NBI-Cavite District Office - North (NBI-CAVIDO North).

Reports stated that the suspect, Irene Yuvienco Rosal, was arrested for violations of Sections 4 and 5 in relation to Section 39 of Presidential Decree No. 957, and for Swindling/Estafa under Article 315(2)(a) of the Revised Penal Code (RPC).

The NBI was prompted to take action after multiple complaints were filed against Rosal. Complainants alleged they were deceived into believing that a subdivision project being offered by Rosal through MJRL Landsource Realty was legitimately registered and had a license to sell from the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD).

An investigation and verification with DHSUD IV-A confirmed that the project was unregistered and had no license to sell. The agency had already issued a cease and desist order against MJRL Landsource Realty.

Agents of NBI-CAVIDO North, assisted by DHSUD officers, conducted an entrapment operation that led to Rosal’s arrest.

Recovered from Rosal were the marked money, an MJRL Landsource Realty receipt, a lot plan for Landsource Residences (Phase 1), a master list of lot buyers, and a lot distribution map.

Rosal was presented for inquest proceedings for violations of Sections 4 and 5 in relation to Section 39 of Presidential Decree No. 957, and for Swindling/Estafa under Article 315(2)(a) of the Revised Penal Code.

Santiago commended the NBI-CAVIDO North agents for the successful operation, adding that the arrest serves as a reminder that the real estate industry is heavily regulated and that compliance with the law is crucial for developers, management, and buyers.

The case underscores the importance of due diligence and the protection of buyers' rights and investments.