The taxi driver who attempted to steal the luggage and money of his Israeli passenger was traced in Cainta, Rizal.
The driver, who was arrested and brought to the police station, was surprised at the reaction of the victim. The Israeli had decided to forgive him for his action and declined to file charges.
According to John Consulta’s report on “24 Oras,” a CCTV of a hotel in Makati City showed the taxi leave after the Israeli tourist got out of the car to inquire at the establishment.
“Umalis na agad yung taxi na ito, e nandyan yung tatlong bagahe na malalaki, nandyan yun laptop niya, nandun yung pera niya,” said Police Colonel Edward Cutiyog, Makati Chief of Police.
“Laptop, clothes, money, passport, ID. Everything’s there,” said the victim, identified as Hever Ben-Horin.
In backtracking, the police the taxi was traced in a house in Cainta, Rizal where they found the victim’s three suitcases, laptop, and money.
“Agad po tayo nagsagawa ng follow up investigation. Nung matukoy kung nasaan ang taxi, agad tayo nagsagawa ng follow up operation,” pahayag ni Southern Police District (SPD) Director Police Brigadier General Kirby John Kraft.
At the precinct, taxi driver Rudy Vihil did not deny his intentions.
“Natukso talaga ako, inaamin ko kay sir yun,” he said.
But instead of being sued, the police were shocked when the victim decided to forgive the driver who tried to steal his belongings and over 2,000 dollars in cash.
The taxi driver cried because of the kindness shown to him by the Israeli.
“If God can forgive him, who am I not to forgive this guy. I want to give him second chance,” said Hever.
“Maling mali ang ginawa ko. Talagang, nagpapasalamat talaga ako kay sir. Hindi ko na po gagawin yan, pangako ko kay sir ‘yan,” Rudy added.
Meanwhile, the police advised the public to keep safe and inform family members or friends of one’s whereabouts.
“Pag uuwi ka sa pamilya mo, picturan, i-send mo sa pamilya mo na dito ka nakasakay, sa iba pang tao na pwede mong pagkatiwalaan,” Kraft advised the public. — Sherylin Untalan/BAP, GMA Integrated News
