KM Viray
Netizen Grace Gamallo Semilla posted a warning to all drivers about another version of the “Laglag Barya” modus. The Laglag Barya Gang is known for “dropping” coins in public vehicles and when innocent passengers bend down to help pick up the scattered coins, an accomplice (or two) reaches into bags of the victims to steal their wallets, phones, and other valuables. This time, though, another version of the Laglag Barya modus was exposed by Semilla.
As Semilla left Metrobank Lahug, Cebu City, a decent-looking man knocked on her window and told her something fell from the back of her vehicle. Fortunately, Semilla had heard on the news a report about a new modus operandi targeting drivers and tried to ignore the man and leave. However, another man approached her on the other side of the car and intentionally blocked the driveway to inform her that something really did fall from the back of her car. Instinct took over, though, and Semilla was able to speed away. When Semilla arrived at her destination, she saw 21 pieces of one-peso coins planted at the back of her car.
The modus works by luring the driver out of the vehicle to check the back. When the driver steps out, an accomplice would enter the car from a different side to grab the driver’s bag or belongings.
Lucky for Semilla she was well-informed of such tactics and was able to spare herself from being a victim. Other netizens should take a page out of her book and be wary and vigilant. Spreading the word and listening to news and the experiences can save would-be victims from grief.
