Double heist

Just as the city was calming down from the multiple events it had hosted since the start of the year, a group of armed individuals decided to rob a jewelry store and a pawn shop in Barangay Ermita last week. They did not just cart away pieces of jewelry from one store; they also took items from the adjacent store that sold similar goods. Authorities described the heist as having been executed in less than 10 seconds, a crucial timeframe for their response to the incident.

As of this writing, details about the perpetrators remain vague, except for the fact that there were six of them. One of the motorcycles alleged to have been used in the crime was left behind, along with a helmet. These robbers could be anywhere now, possibly cooling off and enjoying the spoils of their crime. It will be challenging to determine if the loot can be recovered, as a savvy thief would avoid selling the items in bulk to evade suspicion.

While the Cebu City Police Office is doing its best to arrest the suspects, the burden of responsibility is not just on them. The robbery at Oro Sugbo should have served as a wake-up call. In fact, authorities noted that the modus operandi is quite similar. Had there been a silent alarm to alert the authorities or more than one security guard on duty, this incident might have been prevented. A robbery conducted in broad daylight also indicates complacency on the part of the business establishments. Ensuring safety is everyone’s responsibility, and it is crucial to have all necessary measures in place to prevent such incidents.

In response, the city has enacted ordinances to expedite investigations. For example, there is now a requirement for all establishments to install CCTV cameras on their premises. This not only enhances the sense of safety but also aids investigators in retracing the events. The Oro Sugbo incident taught us many lessons, lessons that should not be forgotten.

It is unfair to place the entire burden on the authorities to conduct a swift investigation. Unnecessary pressure could lead to obstacles or, worse, wrongful accusations, which would undermine their case. At this point, they need to be thorough to ensure their efforts are not in vain. Solving crime is not solely the responsibility of law enforcement; it also involves the community. Being proactive rather than apathetic about local incidents is crucial.

I hope this will be the last heist in the city. Such incidents not only erode trust among locals but also deter visitors. A reputation for frequent criminal activities can damage our tourism industry and the economy. We all want what is best for our city, and now is the time to work together rather than point fingers.