MCPO arrests three pickpockets

CEBU, Philippines - In a span of two days, the Mandaue City Police Office arrested three pickpockets, one of them armed with a gun.

Theft and Robbery Section Chief P/Insp.Ramil Morpos has warned the public to be extra vigilant and alert for lawless elements who would take advantage of the onset of the holiday season the time when most employees in the public and private sectors receive their bonuses.

Morpos said more policemen are sent to bus and jeepney terminals and waiting sheds to ensure the safety of commuters.

First to be arrested were Dennis Solbrilla, 38, of  barangay Labangon, Cebu City and Sanny Alcantara, 27, of Talisay City.

Both are currently detained at the Basak police station.

Police said  Emilio Lipao-Lipao, 42, married, and a native of Tabuelan town was traveling in a jeepney Monday morning in barangay Tabok when he realized his money which he placed in his front pocket was already missing.

He said that when he noticed two men, who were sitting beside him, get off the jeepney, he followed them. With the help of a traffic enforcer and two eco-wardens, the pickpockets were arrested. A cohort of the thieves got away.

Lipao-Lipao got back his money from Alcantara amounting to P5,000. 

In another development, Noel delos Santos, 28, single, of Pagadian City, temporarily residing in Talisay City, was arrested for carrying .22 caliber revolver with two bullets.

Morpos said Santos is a member of the “Laglag Barya Gang.” - THE FREEMAN