The Embassy of Japan has raised alarm over a string of robberies involving its nationals in and around the Ayala Triangle area, despite the continuous presence of police patrols.
According to the embassy, nearly 20 reports have been received concerning similar incidents, with the most recent occurring early Friday morning, March 21.
At about 1:30 a.m., two Japanese nationals were walking along Makati Avenue near Ayala Triangle Park when they were accosted by two suspects, one of whom forcibly grabbed the strap of one victim’s shoulder bag, while the other pointed what appeared to be a handgun at the second victim’s stomach before stealing their bag.
The assailants, who quickly fled the scene on a motorcycle, left the victims shaken but unharmed.
According to an official at the embassy, this latest robbery is part of an expanding pattern of criminal activity that began around the Little Tokyo and Greenbelt areas some six months ago.
The incidents have since spread toward the Ayala Triangle, an area that is under regular police patrol, raising concerns over the effectiveness of security measures in the area.
The embassy has urged its citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to authorities as it continues to coordinate with local law enforcement to address the rising number of robberies.
It also emphasized that although police patrols are regularly present, these incidents highlight the growing need for increased safety measures to ensure the well-being of foreign nationals living and working in the area.
As investigations continue, authorities are working to identify the suspects and prevent further incidents in the city.
