The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and Philippine National Police (PNP) arrested the suspected leader of the MONTILLA CRIMINAL GROUP, a sea robbery group operating in Manila Bay yesterday, 27 September 2021.

Through a warrant of arrest issued by the REGIONAL TRIAL COURT (RTC) BRANCH 44 – MANILA, the joint law enforcement operatives apprehended MARK MONTILLA also known as MAC-MAC AT BASECO COMPOUND, PORT AREA, MANILA at around 07:39 p.m.

The Montilla Criminal Group is known for their modus operandi on THEFT AND SEA ROBBERY against anchored vessels at the MANILA BAY ANCHORAGE AREA.

During initial investigation, Montilla revealed that various stolen items, such as welding machines and ropes, from the victim vessels are being kept and stowed by their cohorts identified as RANDY and RUEL.

The PCG and PNP immediately effected the arrest of Montilla after the receipt of information regarding his whereabouts.

Follow-up operations against other members of the Montilla Criminal Group are ongoing.