Authorities reminded the public that illegal electrical tapping is strictly prohibited, following the arrest of a man caught illegally connecting to Meralco service lines in Makati City on Tuesday, April 21.
Authorities arrest a man for illegal electrical tapping in Makati City and seize approximately 100-meter cable from his possession. (Photo from SPD)
The Makati City Police Station arrested the man, identified as “Aries,” at the corner of Emilia and Guernica Streets in Barangay Palanan at around 1:20 a.m.
Authorities said Aries was caught in the act of illegally tapping Meralco electrical service lines without authority or consent from the power distribution company, resulting in his immediate arrest.
Approximately 100 meters of electrical cable wires were confiscated from his possession.
The suspect is now under police custody and may face charges for violation of Republic Act 7832 or the Anti-Electricity and Electric Transmission Lines/Materials Pilferage Act of 1994.
Col. Glenn Oliver C. Cinco, acting district director of the Southern Police District (SPD), said the operation reflects their sustained effort to protect public utilities and hold accountable those who illegally exploit essential services.
“The SPD and Makati CPS will continue aggressive law enforcement operations to ensure public safety and order,” he said.