Former guard arrested for stealing neighbor’s rooster

CEBU, Philippines — A 26-year-old former security guard was arrested after he was allegedly caught stealing a fighting cock worth ?1,500 from his neighbor in Sitio Laray, Barangay Mabolo, Cebu City, around 4 A.M. last Saturday, August 1.

The suspect, identified only by his alias “Said”, is a native of Sitio Caragasan, Barangay Maasin, Zamboanga City, but is currently residing in Barangay Mabolo, where the complainant also lives.

Initial investigation showed that the suspect was allegedly caught by another resident in the area while in the act of taking the fighting cock owned by a senior citizen.

The witness, together with the owner of the rooster, immediately turned the suspect over to personnel of the Mabolo Police Station for proper disposition.

During questioning, the suspect reportedly admitted taking the rooster, saying he had lost his job as a security guard and had no other means of livelihood.

He also appealed for understanding, claiming he came to Cebu in search of better opportunities and that his family was struggling financially in his hometown.

Authorities said a theft complaint will be filed against the suspect should the parties fail to reach an amicable settlement. — (FREEMAN)