A 59-year-old woman was arrested after allegedly kidnapping a seven-month-old baby boy from a shopping mall in Surigao City on Christmas Eve, authorities said.
The suspect, identified as Anita Amarille Namog, a resident of Barangay Cawilan, Taganaan, Surigao del Norte, is set to face charges for violating Republic Act 7610, or the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act, according to the Surigao City Police.
Police Lieutenant Colonel Mariano Lukban, chief of the Surigao City Component Police Station, said the incident occurred on December 24, 2025, while the child’s mother was shopping at a mall located in Barangay Luna.
Based on the police investigation, the suspect allegedly approached the child’s mother, introduced herself as a vlogger, and offered money to buy toys for the infant. The woman later convinced the mother to go shopping for clothes at a nearby mall and even treated her to lunch.
However, while the mother was busy selecting clothes, she noticed that her baby and the suspect were no longer with her. Alarmed, she immediately sought assistance from the authorities.
Upon receiving the report, police launched a manhunt operation that led to the suspect’s arrest at around 1:20 p.m. at the Global Port Terminal in Barangay Taft. The suspect was reportedly preparing to travel to Siargao and had changed her clothes. The infant was recovered safely and was found dressed in female clothing.
The child was immediately returned to his mother, unharmed. The suspect is currently in police custody pending the filing of appropriate charges.
Police reminded the public to remain vigilant, especially in crowded places, and warned parents against trusting strangers with their children.
