Cable thieves' truck kills rider in Makati; 10 suspects nabbed
A motorcycle rider was killed when a getaway truck carrying 10 suspects in the alleged theft of underground copper cables in Makati City slammed into his vehicle during a police chase in Manila on Wednesday, July 22.
Authorities arrest 10 individuals allegedly involved in the theft of underground copper cables in Makati City following a police chase that ended in Manila. (Photos from Southern Police District)
The Makati City Police Station said two of the 10 suspects were minors and were rescued in accordance with established procedures.
Prior to the incident in Manila, authorities said the suspects were allegedly involved in the theft of underground copper cables in Magallanes, Makati City, where they reportedly opened a manhole and entered it without any visible signage or authorization for maintenance or utility work.
A concerned citizen reported the suspects to the patrolling authorities.
When officers arrived, the group bolted into a truck van and sped off along Osmeña Highway toward Manila, prompting a police pursuit.
During the chase, police said the suspects' vehicle collided with a motorcycle and a Toyota Vios at the corner of Quirino Avenue and Pedro Gil in Manila, resulting in the death of the rider.
The suspects were apprehended, while the alleged driver of the vehicle escaped.
Recovered were stolen cable wires, bolt cutters, a steel saw, improvised hooks, reflectorized shirts, and the truck van, which authorities said was also stolen.
The suspects face charges under Republic Act 10515, the Anti Cable Television and Cable Internet Tapping Act of 2013.