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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider Metro Manila devider 2 cable thieves nabbed after power outage along España Boulevard

2 cable thieves nabbed after power outage along España Boulevard

Published Jul 29, 2025 06:58 pm
Courtesy of the Manila City Government
Courtesy of the Manila City Government
Two suspects were arrested following a swift follow-up operation by operatives of the Manila Police District (MPD) Station 4 after stealing underground power cables along España Boulevard in Sampaloc, Manila, which caused a power outage in the area.
The arrested suspects, identified only by their aliases as JP, 26, and Mario, 40, are residents of Algeciras Street, Sampaloc.
They were presented to Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso, who condemned the act and emphasized that such incidents undermine the city's ongoing development efforts.
According to the police investigation, the suspects had previously been apprehended for stealing telecommunications cables.
Despite recent infrastructure improvements, including the installation of underground power lines to improve lighting and safety along major roads, the suspects allegedly dug up and stole the already-buried power cables, causing a significant blackout in the area.
Recovered from the suspects were stolen electrical cables valued at approximately P47,000, which are owned by the City Government of Manila.
The successful operation was led by MPD Station 4 Commander Lt. Col. Joven Gerong, under the direction of MPD District Director Police Brig. Gen. Arnold Abad, in response to an urgent directive from Mayor Domagoso.
Gerong also urged the public to remain vigilant and to report suspicious activity or emergencies by calling 911.
He stressed that quick community cooperation is vital in preventing similar incidents.
It was later learned that the suspects committed the crime despite inclement weather caused by storms and monsoon rains.
Authorities believe they may be part of a larger group targeting public infrastructure for scrap or resale.
The two suspects are currently detained at MPD Station 4 as charges are being prepared.
The operation is part of MPD’s intensified patrol and crime prevention program in line with the directive of Philippine National Police Chief PGen. Nicolas Torre III.
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