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2 men arrested for stealing cable wires during massive fire in Tondo, Manila

Philippines | Metro Manila

2 men arrested for stealing cable wires during massive fire in Tondo, Manila

By Hannah Nicol

Two men were arrested for allegedly stealing electrical cables amid a massive fire that broke out at the Aroma Compound in Tondo, Manila, on Wednesday, August 6.

Authorities apprehended suspects seen in a video stealing cable wires (Photo from Manila Police District PS1)

Authorities apprehended suspects seen in a video stealing cable wires (Photo from Manila Police District PS1)

Authorities apprehended suspects seen in a video stealing cable wires (Photo from Manila Police District PS1)

Authorities apprehended suspects seen in a video stealing cable wires (Photo from Manila Police District PS1)

Personnel from the Manila Police District Station 1 (MPD PS1) identified the suspects as “Jokno,” 29, a member of the Sputnik Gang, and “Emmanuel,” 25. Both are scavengers and residents of the Aroma Compound.

MPD PS1 chief Lt. Col. Ronald De Leon said the two took advantage of the chaos during the fire and were caught stripping electrical cables from Building 13 which had been severely damaged by the blaze.

Despite warnings from fellow fire victims, the suspects reportedly continued their activities, prompting outrage among residents.

Police said the incident was caught on video and quickly circulated on social media, drawing widespread public condemnation.

Further investigation revealed that one of the suspects had recently been released from detention and is currently on probation for a previous homicide case.

The suspects are expected to be formally presented to Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso who rushed to the scene to personally oversee the city’s emergency response.

Domagoso also led efforts to provide immediate aid and ensure the safety of hundreds of displaced residents.

The fire broke out on Wednesday, August 6, at the Aroma Compound in Tondo, Manila, injuring three individuals and affecting around 1,500 families.

READ:

https://mb.com.ph/2025/08/06/fire-reaches-5th-alarm-in-tondo

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