PCG foils attempted theft aboard RORO vessel off Batangas
(Photo: Philippine Coast Guard)
Five alleged thieves were intercepted by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) while attempting to steal from a roll-on/roll off (RORO) vessel anchored off Bauan, Batangas on Saturday night, Jan. 3.
The PCG said that the incident occurred around 10 p.m. during a seaborne patrol by Coast Guard personnel. The operation was launched after a tip was received of a possible theft involving M/V Super Shuttle RORO 9.
According to initial investigation, PCG personnel intercepted a motorbanca that was trying to board the RORO.
One individual was arrested onboard the motorbanca where cables were recovered, which authorities said were intended for illegal use.
“The cables were used by the suspects to board the vessel,” PCG communications officer Joy Dianne Gumatay said.
After boarding the vessel, that was the time when the suspects would allegedly steal valuable things from the RORO. "They could be stealing anything that they can get and whatever is profitable," PCG spokesperson Captain Noemie Cayabyab added.
(Photo: Philippine Coast Guard)
The anchored RORO was carrying cargo containers but the PCG have yet to determine its content.
Further, Coast Guard operatives suspected that other accomplices were already onboard the vessel so additional maritime law enforcement teams were deployed to secure the area and conduct perimeter patrols.
A thorough search of the RORO vessel led to the arrest of four more suspects.
All five suspects, whose identities were not disclosed by the PCG as of writing, were taken to the Coast Guard Sub-Station in Bauan for documentation and medical checks.
The PCG said it was preparing charges for filing as of Sunday, Jan. 4.