Stolen gadget's GPS tracker leads to thieves' arrests in Makati
Police arrested three men with the help of a GPS tracker embedded in the Apple Watch they had stolen from a woman in Makati City on Sept. 8.
Col. Reycon Garduque, Makati City Police chief, said the suspects -- identified as alias Kalbo, alias Kobe, and alias Patrick -- were arrested in Barangays 133 and 137 in Pasay City.
According to the police, the 48-year-old victim found out that her iPhone 15 Pro Max cellphone worth P79,000 and Apple Watch valued at P39,000 were missing, prompting her to trace the stolen devices using the "Find My" application.
She tracked her devices to Pasay City, where closed circuit television (CCTV) footage from the theft site clearly identified the three suspects.
The police quickly launched a hot pursuit operation, which resulted in the arrest of Kalbo, Kobe, and Patrick.
Arresting officers recovered the stolen Apple Watch from the suspects, but the cellphone remains missing.
Garduque said the three will be charged with theft, while a manhunt was launched for another suspect identified as alias Eric.
Once arrested, Eric will be charged for violation of the Anti-Fencing Law.
Meanwhile, Brig. Gen. Randy Arceo, Southern Police District (SPD) director, lauded the Makati City Police for the suspects' arrest.
“The immediate action of our officers, combined with the victim’s proactive use of technology, resulted in the quick arrest of the suspects and recovery of stolen property. This operation shows our strong resolve to protect our citizens and bring offenders to justice. We will not allow criminals to prey on our communities,” Arceo said.