Armed robbery in BGC: South Korea warns nationals

The South Korean embassy has warned its citizens to be careful amid a "deteriorating crime situation" and "serious crimes" targeting Korean nationals.

- By EJ MACABABBAD

The advisory was issued after two Koreans strolling along 9th Avenue in front of One Park Drive in Bonifacio Global City in Taguig were robbed at gunpoint by four men on two motorcycles at 11:40 p.m. on May 17. The robbers escaped with the victims' cash and designer bags.

The advisory noted that the robbery occurred in BGC, "which was considered relatively safe."

"Given that armed robberies, deaths, abductions, and other serious crimes against Korean nationals are frequently occurring and the deteriorating crime situation, Korean nationals are advised to refrain from unnecessary movements during late-night hours," the advisory said.

Following the robbery, over 100 police officers were deployed to secure BGC, according to Taguig's newly appointed police officer-incharge.

The suspects, identified only as Adam from Caloocan and John from Manila, reportedly snatched two designer bags worth a combined P200,000 from the victims, aged 33 and 45.

Police said the robbery involved a tactic increasingly used by criminals to facilitate quick escapes and mask their identities with helmets.