February 10, 2025 | Zamboanga City – Personnel from the 1st Marine Company, MBLT-1, successfully rescued a 17-year-old girl from a possible abduction attempt while conducting a mobile patrol at Tala Diversion Road, Zone 1, Barangay Lumbangan, Zamboanga City on the evening of February 9, 2025.
At approximately 10:35 PM, the Marines noticed a white motorcycle with a female passenger who was screaming for assistance. Sensing distress, the Marines immediately pursued the vehicle. Upon realizing he was being followed, the motorcycle rider abruptly changed direction, leading to a high-speed chase. The pursuit ended in Barangay Lunzuran, where the female passenger managed to escape, and the Marines safely took her into custody.
The victim was then brought to the 1st Marine Company headquarters in Barangay Lumbangan for identification and debriefing. She was identified as a minor and a resident of Barangay Guisao, Zamboanga City.
According to the victim, she had been on her way to Barangay Divisoria when she hailed a motorcycle-for-hire, commonly known as a “habal-habal.” The driver, who later became the suspect, claimed he needed to return home to retrieve his license during the trip. Feeling uneasy about the situation, the victim asked the driver to stop and let her return home, but he ignored her pleas. It was at this moment that the Marines passed by and heard her cries for help.
The rescued girl was immediately taken to Police Station 4 (PS4) in Barangay Culianan to file a formal complaint against the suspect.
The swift action of the 1st Marine Company highlights their commitment to ensuring public safety and countering potential threats in Zamboanga City. The Marines reassured the public that they remain vigilant and ready to respond in coordination with local security forces to protect the community.
Authorities are currently investigating the incident further to identify and apprehend the suspect.
