Chaos at SOGO Hotel during Mendiola rally; vault taken, guard injured

• Protest in Mendiola on Sept. 21 turned violent when rallyists stormed a SOGO Hotel branch
• SOGO OIC Lorenzo Junio confirmed that the hotel’s vault was emptied during the break-in
• A security guard was injured while several guests were inside their rooms during the chaos
• Police are investigating the looters, as organizers condemned the violence and urged peaceful protest

What began as a massive anti-corruption rally in Mendiola on Sunday, September 21, took a violent turn when a group of protesters forced their way into a nearby SOGO Hotel branch and allegedly looted its vault.

According to SOGO officer-in-charge Lorenzo Junio, the rallyists did not stop at entering the hotel premises but also “emptied the vault,” leaving management and guests in shock.

A security guard on duty sustained injuries during the commotion and was immediately rushed for medical treatment.

Several guests were also inside their rooms when the incident happened, heightening the tension and confusion.

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The rally, which drew thousands to the streets to commemorate the anniversary of Martial Law and to denounce alleged government corruption, had earlier been largely peaceful.

Demonstrators carried placards and chanted slogans calling for accountability and reforms.

However, chaos erupted when a faction of protesters broke away and stormed the hotel along Mendiola, a few meters from the main rally site.

Authorities quickly arrived at the scene to control the situation and secure the hotel premises.

Police are still investigating the identities of those behind the break-in and whether they were connected to the main protest organizers, many of whom have since condemned the violence.

Despite the incident, the larger demonstration in Mendiola continued, with organizers emphasizing the importance of peaceful protest.

Several personalities and advocacy groups also took part in the rally, underscoring the public’s growing frustration over corruption scandals.

Junio assured guests that security measures will be tightened following the breach, while police vowed to file charges against those responsible for the theft and assault.

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In other news, contractors Pacifico “Curlee” and Sarah Discaya went to the DOJ to seek inclusion in the Witness Protection Program (WPP). Curlee, detained by the Senate for contempt, presented his affidavit for review by Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla. The couple offered to name lawmakers, staff, and DPWH officials allegedly tied to flood control corruption but must return ill-gotten wealth first. DOJ stressed that WPP protection is a privilege, warning that false testimony could lead to perjury charges or detention.

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Source: KAMI.com.gh