Man in viral alleged cable theft in Antipolo: 'Fixing, not stealing'
A 21-year-old man seen in a viral video of alleged electrical cable theft clarified that he was only fixing the dangling wires, not stealing them, to prevent potential accidents for motorists and pedestrians in Antipolo City, Rizal.
The man, wearing a white T-shirt and gray shorts, seen in the viral alleged cable theft in Antipolo, clarifies to authorities that he was fixing the wires to prevent accidents, contrary to the video showing him as if he were stealing them. (Screengrab from Kris/Facebook)
According to the Antipolo City Component Police Station (Antipolo CCPS), the incident occurred at a mall parking lot along Sumulong Highway in Barangay Mambugan on Feb. 15 and was reported on Feb. 19, following a viral video uploaded by “Kris.”
The alleged suspect, identified as “Hans,” an employee volunteering with the waste management collection services in Barangay Mambugan, personally went to the police station along with barangay personnel to explain his side.
In the video, Hans, wearing a white T-shirt and gray shorts, is seen holding dangling electrical cable wires, which spark as he holds them after they are found to be live. He then stopped and walked away from the area.
However, during the investigation, Hans stated that he noticed the dangling electrical cable wires along Sumulong Highway.
As he wanted to prevent potential injuries or accidents to passersby and motorists, he used pliers and electrical tape to roll up the wires. He was unaware that he was being recorded as he continued his work.
“The electrical cable sparked, creating the impression that he intended to steal the wires,” authorities said.
To address the issue, personnel of the Antipolo CCPS coordinated with Barangay Mambugan and Meralco in Antipolo City for the repairs of the dangling electric cable wires.
Authorities also said Hans was not detained, and Barangay Mambugan certified that he is indeed their employee.