Suspect feels guilty, returns money stolen in scam

The suspect in a cash-in scheme in Pangasinan has returned the money to the victims. The reported reason – guilt. 

The story about the cash-in scam in Barangay Nalsian Norte, Malasiqui, Pangasinan, was aired on GMA Regional TV One North Central Luzon on March 13.

Two days later, the business owners who fell victim to the scam received a surprise. The suspect called them up, apologized, and returned the P35,000 that was stolen. 

The suspect reportedly felt guilty and was only hard-pressed for money, thus, resorted to the scam.

“Humihingi siya ng pasensiya  noong tumawag siya, sabi ko bakit niya nagawa ‘iyon? Sabi niya, nagipit lang siya,” the victim said.

The suspect also returned the money taken from another victim in Alcala.

Because of the trauma they have experienced, the victims said they are now extra cautious with their online financial transactions.

“Mas maingat [na ngayon], dati naman talaga payment first ang policy namin. Noong oras na iyon at ‘yung customer na ‘yun, biglang nabago ang patakaran. Dahil mayaman siya, nagtiwala ‘yung kasama ko,” a victim said.

The victims have decided not to pursue charges against the suspect.

The police reminded the public:

“Sa ating lalawigan, hindi lingid sa kaalaman sa ating kababayan na may na-scam. So, ang paalala namin  huwag maniwala agad sa online,” PCPT. Renan Dela Cruz, Public Information Officer, Pangasinan Police Provincial Office, said.  —GMA Regional TV