2 suspects in viral LRT pickpocketing video nabbed in Pasay; hand grenade recovered
Authorities arrested two individuals, including a woman who went viral in a TikTok video, for their alleged involvement in pickpocketing and other criminal activities in Pasay City.
The arrested suspect in the viral TikTok pickpocketing video (Photo from Pasay City Police)
Pasay City Police Chief Col. Joselito De Sesto identified the suspects as Richmond, 28, and Angel, 18. They were apprehended at around 1:45 p.m. in front of a fast-food chain near the Buendia overpass.
De Sesto said the arrest followed the circulation of a viral video showing a pickpocketing incident at LRT Gil Puyat Station, uploaded on Dec. 14 by social media user “rkalonte3.”
According to the uploader, three unidentified individuals, allegedly posing as passenger callers, mingled with commuters to target victims—particularly those wearing backpacks and traveling alone. One commuter was reportedly victimized but managed to recover the stolen cellphone after confronting the suspects.
Following the report, members of Pasay City Police Substation 1 conducted surveillance and monitoring in the area. Richmond was positively identified as one of the individuals in the viral video, notably due to a tattoo on the back of his head.
Authorities said Richmond and Angel were allegedly about to victimize passengers when they were arrested.
Authorities said that Richmond and Angel were allegedly about to victimize passengers when they were arrested.
The suspects are currently detained at the Pasay City Police custodial facility.
Police said Richmond was found in possession of a hand grenade and was charged with violation of Republic Act 9516 (Illegal Possession of Explosives) and Article 151 of the Revised Penal Code (Resistance and Disobedience to a Person in Authority). Meanwhile, Angel was charged with violation of Article 148 of the Revised Penal Code (Direct Assault).