The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) apprehended a former First Family employee for acting as a "fixer" and extorting money in exchange for securing government project deals.
CIDG Director PMGen. Nicolas Torre III revealed that the suspect was found to be extorting 3-5 percent kickbacks in exchange for securing government contracts, including those for infrastructure and supplies.
Using photographs with the First Family, the suspect is said to have convinced his victims by claiming to hold an undersecretary position.
Moreover, the individual was reportedly able to collect millions of pesos from victims, all of whom are from the private sector.
"Kami ay nananawagan rin sa iba pang nilapitan ng taong 'to, baka kayo ay nagbayad ng payment o pera. You can file your complaint with us so that may chance na makabawi kayo sa mga binigay sa kanya sa mga hinihingi niyang kickback," Torre stated.
The suspect was arrested at a hotel in Pasay City reportedly at the request of the Office of the President through the Special Envoy for Transnational Crimes.
Prior to the suspect’s arrest, the CIDG had also apprehended a gubernatorial candidate from Guimaras after he reportedly introduced himself as a relative of First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos.
