A man was arrested within minutes after he was caught on surveillance camera allegedly stealing cables inside the Ayala Tunnel along EDSA in Makati City on May 22.
The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) said its CCTV system helped authorities quickly track and arrest the suspect, who was seen pulling down and cutting hanging cables inside the tunnel at around 10:35 pm.
According to the MMDA, a CCTV operator monitoring the area noticed the suspicious activity and immediately alerted the agency’s Metrobase.
Metrobase then coordinated with the Southern Police District-Makati Police Station, enabling police to respond to the scene.
Thirteen minutes later, at around 10:48 pm, the suspect was arrested while leaving the Ayala Tunnel carrying a backpack.
The MMDA said the suspect is now under the custody of the Makati Police and has undergone inquest proceedings before the Office of the City Prosecutor.
The agency urged the public to immediately report suspicious activities, especially along major roads and public infrastructure, to help authorities prevent theft, damage, and possible safety risks.
Motorists and concerned citizens may call the MMDA 136 Hotline for immediate assistance.