THE Philippine National Police (PNP), through the Makati City Police Station of the Southern Police District, arrested an Iranian national in Makati City following an alleged fraudulent gold transaction involving fake gold bars valued at approximately Php18.66 million late Friday evening, May 15, 2026.
According to reports, the incident occurred inside a hotel building in Makati City where the suspect allegedly transacted with several individuals for the sale of 60 supposed gold bars. Verification conducted by the buyers later revealed that the alleged gold bars and accompanying certificates of authenticity were fake, prompting the involved parties to seek police assistance.
Police reports further indicated that tension arose during the confrontation, prompting authorities to respond immediately after assistance was sought. The suspect was subsequently placed under police custody. Recovered during the operation were the alleged fake gold bars, purported falsified certificates, one caliber 9mm pistol with magazine and ammunition, and a cellular phone.
PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. commended the responding personnel for their swift and professional action.
“Pinaaalalahanan natin ang ating mga kababayan na maging mapanuri sa anumang transaksyon, lalo na kung malaking halaga ang nakasalalay dito. Mabilis na rumesponde ang ating kapulisan upang matiyak ang kaligtasan ng mga involved at maayos na maiproseso ang insidente ayon sa batas,” PGen Nartatez said.
He added, “Mahalaga ang tiwala ng publiko. Kaya naman tuloy-tuloy ang ating pagpapatupad ng batas with professionalism, restraint, and respect for due process. Higit sa lahat, mabilis nating natutugunan ang mga ulat at napangangalagaan ang publiko laban sa panlilinlang at iba pang paglabag sa batas.”
Appropriate charges are being prepared against the suspect, while further investigation is ongoing.
The PNP assures the public that it will continue to intensify its efforts against fraudulent schemes and other criminal activities in line with the organization’s commitment to “Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman.”