A 21-year-old man suspected to be a member of the notorious Commando Gang was arrested for allegedly stealing a religious statue from a chapel in Barangay 236, Tondo, during a massive fire that broke out in Aroma Compound, Tondo, Manila, on Thursday, August 6.

The suspect, identified as alias Allen, a resident of Lacson Street, Tondo, was captured following an immediate follow-up and backtracking operation conducted by operatives of MPD Police Station 2, under the command of Lt. Col. Gilbert C. Cruz.

The operation concluded with the suspect’s arrest at the corner of Quezon and Perla Streets in Barangay 109, District 1, Tondo.

According to a report submitted to the MPD, the suspect was found in possession of the stolen statue, known as the image of Our Lady of Assumption.

Authorities also seized the suspects' motorcycle, which was allegedly used as a getaway vehicle during the theft.

Initial reports revealed that around 7 p.m. on August 6, a barangay kagawad discovered the statue had gone missing from the community chapel and immediately alerted the authorities.

MPD operatives began reviewing CCTV footage from the area and spotted a man on a motorcycle stopping and taking the religious statue.

Through careful review of the CCTV footage, officers were able to trace the suspect’s movements, including the direction he fled and his home address.

Operatives then conducted a stakeout in front of the suspect’s residence, where they spotted the motorcycle used in the crime, parked outside.

When the suspect finally stepped out of the house, he was immediately arrested by the police.

A witness later positively identified the suspect as the person who took the statue.

During the investigation, the suspect revealed the location where he had taken the statue.

Police proceeded to the area in Pandacan, Manila, and successfully recovered the stolen statue.

The suspect is currently detained at MPD Station 2 and is facing charges for violation of Article 308 of the Revised Penal Code, or theft.