Commuter Recounts Alleged 'Ketchup' Pickpocketing Scheme on MRT

janimonow

February 4

Cris Manimtim, a commuter on the Manila Metro Rail Transit System (MRT), recently shared a distressing experience that left him wary and alert during his daily commute. The incident, which took place in December, involved what he suspected to be a new pickpocketing tactic involving the use of ketchup.

According to a report by Vonne Aquino on GTV's "State of the Nation," Cris recalled boarding the MRT at Cubao Station on his way to work. He noticed a fellow passenger who initially stood in front of him but then moved behind him as the train approached Ortigas Station. It wasn't until they reached Shaw Boulevard Station that the passenger pointed out that Cris had ketchup on his bag and clothes, specifically on his shoulder area.

The concerned passenger urged Cris to find some tissue to clean off the ketchup. However, Cris, recalling a friend's account of a similar modus operandi resulting in stolen belongings, chose to ignore the advice. He remembered the warning and decided not to be distracted by the ketchup, even as it continued to drip. Cris maintained his composure and grip on his belongings, especially his cellphone, and promptly exited the train carriage without heading to the restroom to clean up, as suggested by the fellow passenger.

Despite not losing any of his possessions during the incident, Cris called for heightened security measures on the MRT to prevent such deceptive tactics from victimizing commuters. In response to the reported incident, Department of Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista expressed that this was the first time he had heard of such a modus operandi and assured that the matter would be looked into to ensure the safety of MRT passengers.

The incident highlights the need for continuous vigilance and the importance of security awareness among commuters to safeguard against innovative yet deceitful strategies employed by pickpockets in public transportation.