The Makati Police have identified a person of interest in the unusual robbery incident that occurred at a Japanese restaurant along Pasay Road in Makati City on Sunday, according to National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) chief Major General Anthony Aberin.
Based on CCTV footage that went viral online, two armed men entered the restaurant. Both were wearing helmets—one in a black jacket, and the other in a uniform of a ride-hailing app Joyride.
According to the NCRPO chief, Makati chief of police’s report stated that the suspects took the customers' belongings—including cellphones, bags, and high-end accessories—but later returned them. However, the man in the black jacket discreetly pocketed the wallet of a Japanese customer.
"Noong paglabas nila, ibinalik lahat ng gamit except doon sa palihim na ibinulsa na pitaka na may lamang pera," Aberin told DZRH News.
"Noong umalis po sila ay nagpaalam pa raw po 'yung mga gumawa nito at humingi pa ng dispensa, at sinabi 'sir, ma'am wala po kaming kinuha.' Kami po ay nagtataka kung ano ba ang motibo ng mga taong ito," he added.
The wallet reportedly contained ₱25,000. Although the Japanese victim said they did not wish to press charges, Aberin said the police will stand as the complainant and file the appropriate case against the suspects.
Meanwhile, the investigation also revealed that the motorcycle used by the suspects does not match its registered plate number, indicating it is likely not affiliated with Joyride.
Aberin told DZRH News that the investigation is ongoing, including backtracking through CCTV footage in the area. He added that they are preparing charges and gathering additional evidence to establish the suspects' motive.
