Digital payment helps QC cops track robbery suspect in Bulacan
By Hannah Nicol
The Quezon City Police District (QCPD) traced a robbery suspect to San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan, through a digital payment transaction that revealed his identity and location.
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 on 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 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 it registered under the suspect’s name, a lead that helped police trace him to Bulacan.
Further verification, including information from Facebook, confirmed 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 robbery charges under Article 293 of the Revised Penal Code, along with alleged violations of Republic Act 11235 (Motorcycle Crime Prevention Act) and Republic Act 10591 (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.