MANILA – Police authorities told commuters to be watchful of all their fellow passengers, including women, as they are now being used in various crime schemes.

One of them is suspect Nikki Ali, who was arrested and jailed for a jeepney hold-up in Ermita district, Manila.

The 18-year-old Ali could not face the cameras when police arrested her past 2 a.m. Wednesday.

Aileen Menligo accused Ali of toting a knife and forcibly taking her belongings while they were onboard a jeepney traveling along Quezon Bridge in Ermita, Manila.

“Wala na akong nagawa, binigay ko na lang yung bag ko,” related Menligo, who immediately reported the incident at the Lawton Police Community Precinct (PCP).

Authorities were able to catch Ali but her male accomplice got away with Menligo’s bag and cell phone.

“Nagawa ko lang naman po kasi yung nanay ko nasa ospital, kailangan namin ng pera,” explained Ali.

Menligo fired back at the suspect, saying: “Mali yung ginawa niya kahit may rason pa siyang ganyan.”

Police are expecting more robbery and hold-up incidents as the Christmas Season nears. – With a report from Niko Baua, ABS-CBN News