Two Japanese nationals were shot and killed during a robbery in a downtown district of Manila, the Japanese Embassy in the Philippines confirmed on Sunday. The incident, which occurred late Friday night, has prompted an investigation by local authorities.
According to reports from local media and information from the Japanese Embassy, the victims were approached by a man as they were getting into a taxi around 10:40 p.m. on Friday. The assailant ordered them out of the vehicle and shot them shortly after. The suspect then stole their belongings and fled the scene on a motorcycle with an accomplice.
The identities of the two men have not been officially released. The motive appears to be robbery, but Philippine law enforcement officials are continuing to investigate the full circumstances of the crime.
The Japanese Embassy has stated it is cooperating with Philippine authorities and providing support to the victims’ families. The incident highlights concerns about the safety of foreign nationals in urban areas of the Philippines.