Hot pursuit ends Palestinian refugee’s crime streak

Police arrested a 35-year-old Palestinian refugee on 6 February following a hostel robbery, later linking him to a string of thefts and disturbances across Metro Manila.

The suspect, a refugee with no known permanent address, was apprehended by operatives of the Anti-Carnapping Section near the Crossroads Hostel on Mariveles Street.

Officers conducting surveillance in the area responded after the hostel owner reported the suspect had stolen P5,000 in cash.

Following a brief pursuit, police caught the suspect on Sierra Madre Street at approximately 10:15 p.m. During a search, authorities recovered a bladed weapon. Police said the suspect resisted arrest and attempted to escape before being restrained.

Further investigation revealed the suspect was involved in several other incidents that same day, including refusing to pay an InDrive driver. Records also linked him to an October 2025 arrest for estafa in Quezon City, a January 2026 theft of P50,000 in electronic devices in Bonifacio Global City, and a separate theft in Malate.

Philippine National Police Chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said that the arrest reflects the PNP’s “Focused Agenda,” specifically its commitment to enhanced police operations and real-time response.

“We will not allow individuals to repeatedly disturb the peace and take advantage of ordinary citizens,” Nartatez said. “Every person who commits a crime will be held accountable, and the police will enforce justice.”