Digital payment helps QC cops track robbery suspect to Bulacan
By Hannah Nicol
The Quezon City Police District (QCPD) said a robbery investigation in the city led police to San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan, after a digital payment transaction helped investigators identify and track down the suspect.
Confiscated pieces of evidence recovered from the suspect. (Photo from QCPD)
The QCPD identified the suspect only as alias “Anton,” a resident of Barangay Escopa, Quezon City.
The case stemmed from a robbery at a Burger Machine outlet along E. Rodriguez Sr. Boulevard in Barangay Kristong Hari at around 2:24 a.m. on Aug. 7.
Police said the suspect, allegedly armed with a firearm, took P5,400 in cash before fleeing aboard a motorcycle toward Aurora Boulevard.
Investigators from the Galas Police Station (PS-11) conducted forward- and back-tracking operations and traced the suspect’s movements toward EDSA and Main Avenue.
At around 2:42 a.m., police said the suspect was seen in Barangay Industrial Valley Complex, where he made a digital payment transaction.
Investigators obtained the cellphone number used in the transaction and found that it was registered under the suspect’s name, providing a lead that eventually helped police trace him to Bulacan.
Further verification, including information gathered from Facebook, helped investigators establish the suspect’s identity and reported residence in Barangay San Manuel, San Jose del Monte.
PS-11 operatives proceeded to Bulacan on Aug. 11. At around 11:45 p.m., the victim positively identified the suspect as the alleged perpetrator, leading to his arrest.
Recovered from the suspect were a blue motorcycle allegedly used in the robbery, a firearm, helmet, hoodie jacket, shorts, sandals, and a raincoat or poncho.
Police said further investigation showed that the motorcycle allegedly used different license plates and was reportedly linked to other robbery incidents in Metro Manila.
The QCPD also said the suspect had previous records for robbery and violation of a city ordinance in October 2015.
The suspect will face complaints for robbery under Article 293 of the Revised Penal Code and alleged violations of Republic Act No. 11235, or the Motorcycle Crime Prevention Act, and Republic Act No. 10591, or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.
“The QCPD remains committed in pursuing individuals involved in criminal activities and keeping the community safe. We likewise encourage the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or call E911/ QC Helpline 122 to help prevent and solve crimes,” QCPD chief Brig. Gen. Randy Glenn Silvio said.