Authorities arrested 16 individuals caught allegedly stealing underground copper cables in San Juan City, in what police described as a coordinated effort to protect critical infrastructure and public services.
In a statement, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said the suspects were apprehended around 12:15 am on May 5 along Araullo Street in Barangay Addition Hills during a joint operation by the Eastern Police District and the San Juan City Police.
The operation stemmed from a tip provided by a concerned citizen, which led authorities to catch the group in the act of cutting and hauling underground cable lines. Among those arrested was a 48-year-old man identified only by the alias “Gabe,” while another suspect believed to be the group’s leader, known as “Pipoy,” managed to evade arrest. A minor found at the scene was also taken into custody and placed under proper care.
Police recovered copper cables owned by a telecommunications firm with an estimated value of more than P456,000. Seized from the suspects were vehicles, bolt cutters, steel bars, and other equipment believed to have been used to access and extract the underground wiring.
Charges are being prepared against the suspects for violations of Republic Act No. 10515 (Anti-Cable Television and Cable Internet Tapping Act of 2013), as well as theft under the Revised Penal Code.
PNP chief Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. commended the police units for their swift response, stressing that such illegal activities disrupt essential services and harm the public.
Police said the operation is part of broader efforts to crack down on crimes targeting utilities and to ensure uninterrupted delivery of communication services. The PNP also reiterated its call for public vigilance, encouraging citizens to report suspicious activities as authorities continue to intensify operations against similar offenses.