“Motorcycle thieves” at IT Park arrested

CEBU, Philippines - Three men believed to be responsible for the string of motorcycle theft incidents at the Cebu IT Park were arrested by Cebu City police Tuesday night in Barangay Apas.

Police identified the suspects as Victor Pintoy Surigao Jr., 34; Rogelio Sevella Jr., 36; and Ernie Lobo Gelladuga, 41. They denied the allegations and claimed that they were only habal-habal drivers.

Police recovered three stolen motorcycles while they are currently looking for two other motorcycles.

Chief Inspector David Señor, head of the Theft and Robbery Section (TRS), said that the three men might be responsible for the series of the motorcycle theft incidents in IT Park.

Señor said that Sevella was arrested by two IT Park security guards in the act of stealing a parked motorcycle and was turned over to TRS.  Upon investigation, Sevella said that he had two other companions whom he called his bosses.

He told police officers where the stolen motorcycles could be found, as well as the hideout of the suspects.

Sevella alleged that Gelladuga and Surigao are responsible for dismantling the motorcycle parts.

To check the veracity of Sevella’s claim, TRS operatives conducted a follow-up operation in Sitio Mahayahay, Barangay Apas and saw the two suspects in a rented apartment where they allegedly carried out their illegal business.

Señor added that Sevella reportedly worked for the two suspects and was paid P3,500 for a single motorcycle that he can get.

But Gelladuga and Surigao denied Sevella’s claim and said they only knew him two weeks ago making it impossible for them to become his bosses.

Gelladuga and Surigao said they have not stolen motorcycles and said that it was Sevella who is a known thief.

Señor told reporters that TRS received reports that at least three motorcycle theft incidents have been reported daily in Barangays Apas and Lahug. — (FREEMAN)