By I. Inojales | 12:47 PM October 22, 2025
TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol — The man behind the fake “SM foreman” scam that alarmed residents and deceived several construction workers has been arrested by police authorities.
In a coordinated operation led by Lt. Col. John Kareen Escober, chief of police of the Tagbilaran City Police Station (TCPS), the suspect was apprehended during a buy-bust operation for the illegal sale of a firearm on Tuesday night, October 21, 2025.
The suspect was identified as Miguel Bremon Venus, 51, a resident of Cuasi, Taytay, Loon. He had been using the alias “Raymund Godinez,” the same fake name he reportedly used to pose as an SM foreman to deceive workers and residents.
The operation took place at around 11:35 p.m. along Dangoy Street, Purok 7, Barangay Bool, Tagbilaran City.
Recovered from the suspect were the following items: one Caliber .38 revolver loaded with two live ammunition, one sling bag, one Realme smartphone, and P3,500 buy-bust money (P500 genuine and P3,000 marked bills)
Police said the suspect’s arrest was part of the continuing anti-criminality campaign of the Tagbilaran police. The operation was properly documented using PNP Body-Worn Cameras to ensure transparency and evidence integrity.
Authorities lauded the swift and coordinated efforts of the TCPS team, stressing that scams and criminal deception have no place in the city.
Venus is now under police custody and will face charges for violations of the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act and other related offenses.
