Holdaper ng bangko sa Taguig, regular na kliyente umano ng bangko

- A suspect in a recent bank robbery attempt in Taguig allegedly turned out to be a regular customer of the very financial institution he was trying to rob

- Police authorities say the suspect’s familiarity with the guards made it possible for him to bring a firearm inside the bank

- The teller’s quick action foiled the robbery attempt, with the alarm activation leading to swift police response and suspect's arrest

- An investigation is underway after the failed heist at the Taguig branch of the branch, while the suspect is now facing robbery and election gun ban charges

A man who allegedly held up a bank in Western Bicutan, Taguig City, on Monday was a regular customer, which made it possible for him to bypass security checks and enter the premises with a firearm.

According to initial police investigations, the suspect entered the Philippine Veterans Bank branch by pretending to be a regular client intending to make a withdrawal.

Because he was a familiar face to the bank’s security personnel, his bag was reportedly not inspected, enabling him to bring a gun inside.

The suspect was also reportedly granted access to a restroom that is typically off-limits to customers.

Upon exiting the restroom, he was wearing a bonnet and proceeded to brandish a firearm, declaring a robbery.

While initial reports indicated that the suspect managed to take over P7 million in cash, authorities clarified that no money was successfully stolen from the bank.

This was due to a quick-thinking bank teller who managed to activate the alarm button, immediately alerting the Taguig City Police.

Responding swiftly to the distress call, police officers arrived at the scene and apprehended the suspect. He is now facing charges of robbery and violation of the existing election gun ban.

The suspect has declined to issue any statement regarding the incident.

In a statement released shortly after the incident, the Philippine Veterans Bank expressed its gratitude to the Taguig City Police for their prompt and efficient response.

The bank also confirmed its full cooperation with the ongoing investigation.

The Philippine Veterans Bank further clarified that no customers were inside the branch at the time of the incident, as the bank was already nearing its closing hours.

They also assured the public that all their staff members were safe and unharmed.

“Philippine Veterans Bank remains fully committed to the safety and security of our clients, employees, and facilities,” the bank’s statement read.

“Our existing security systems were instrumental in alerting law enforcement and enabling their timely intervention. As part of our ongoing commitment to safety, we are conducting a comprehensive review of our protocols and are investing further in security enhancements,” it added.

The bank has since resumed its normal operations, assuring its clientele of their continued commitment to safety and security.

The incident has prompted a review of security protocols to prevent similar occurrences in the future, despite the suspect's familiarity with the bank staff.

News, photos or videos that arouse the interest of netizens would often go viral on social media, due to the attention netizens give them. These viral posts appeal to the emotions of netizens, and in rare cases, such could also happen to ordinary people, making them very relatable.

In other news, a buy-and-sell car salesman was killed in Parañaque after meeting the suspects who pretended to be buyers. Initial results of an investigation by authorities state that the victim was shot during a supposed test drive of an SUV he was selling. Swift operation by police authorities led to the capture of alleged killers and their accomplices, along with a cache of firearms and drug5. Authorities believe the incident was a carnapping disguised as a sale, with the suspects posing as mechanics to gain access to the vehicle.

Still in other news, the death of 4-year-old Malia Masongsong caused by an SUV crashing into the waiting area of the NAIA Terminal 1 on May 4 brought about a wave of public concern over safety measures. Her father, Danmark Masongsong emotionally broke the news to his wife, Cynthia, who was devastated and physically overwhelmed by the grief, ABS-CBN News reported. Danmark recalled telling his wife, “Mommy, wala na, iniwan na tayo ni mahal,” capturing the depth of their sorrow. As the investigation continues, the Masongsong family clings to each other for support and seeks accountability for their daughter’s untimely death.

Source: KAMI.com.gh