Ang Pahayagan

ZAMBALES– The Philippine National Police–Highway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG), recovered a motor vehicle allegedly involved in a “Talon-Casa Scheme” during an anti-carnapping and traffic law enforcement operation conducted along the National Highway, San Marcelino, Zambales.

HPG Director PBGen Hansel M. Marantan, said the recovery was carried out by personnel of PHPT Zambales at around 2:48 PM on January 26, 2026.

During the operation, the team flagged down a Suzuki Jimny bearing plate number NAN 7077 for an initial violation of not wearing a seatbelt. Further inspection revealed additional violations, including failure to carry the Certificate of Registration and lack of proof of ownership.

Subsequent verification disclosed that the subject motor vehicle, a gray Suzuki Jimny with engine number K15B1054266 and chassis number JS3JB74V3L5103466, was reportedly involved in a Talon-Casa Scheme with an outstanding defaulted obligation with a financing institution.

The information stemmed from a complaint filed before PHPT Zambales, which indicated that the vehicle had been transacted through informal pawn arrangements without proper authority.

Upon being informed of the motor vehicle’s status and the reported financial encumbrance, the possessor voluntarily surrendered the subject motor vehicle for further investigation and proper disposition.

Verification conducted through the HPG Vehicle Information Management System (VIMS) confirmed that the vehicle is not listed under nationwide alarm at the time of verification.

The recovered motor vehicle is presently under the custody of PHPT Zambales pending further verification and appropriate legal action.

PBGen Hansel M. Marantan, Director, HPG, underscored the continuing risks posed by fraudulent vehicle schemes, stating: “Talon-casa schemes exploit informal transactions and unsuspecting buyers. The Highway Patrol Group remains firm in disrupting these practices and urges the public to verify ownership, financing status, and vehicle records through proper channels before entering into any motor vehicle transaction.”

The PNP-HPG reiterates its advisory to the public to exercise due diligence when acquiring motor vehicles, particularly those offered through informal arrangements, and to immediately report suspicious transactions to authorities.

The Highway Patrol Group remains steadfast in its mission as the nation’s Guardians of the Highway, committed to protecting legitimate vehicle ownership, preventing motor vehicle fraud, and ensuring public safety through disciplined, lawful, and intelligence-driven police operations.