PNP arrests Chinese for Batangas kidnapping

Two Chinese nationals were arrested in Cavite on Wednesday by the Philippine National Police (PNP) for kidnapping three foreigners in Batangas province.

The suspects, a 27-year-old and a 29-year-old male, abducted two Chinese and one Korean national from Barangay Balaytigue in Nasugbu on May 2 and were apprehended at a checkpoint in Bacoor, Cavite on May 3 after evading arrest initially.

During their arrest, police recovered firearms including a .45 caliber pistol and a 9mm handgun, along with ammunition and evidence directly linked to the kidnapping incident.

The victims were released the following day after ransom negotiations but found with bruises indicating physical harm during captivity; two Filipino companions were also present initially but released separately in Tagaytay City and Naic town in Cavite.

Victims' families paid an undisclosed ransom in cryptocurrency for their release, while all negotiations occurred without police knowledge as the kidnappers communicated directly using the victims' cellphones.

The suspects face charges of kidnapping, illegal possession of firearms, and other related offenses with immigration-related charges also being prepared.