The Philippine National Police (PNP) apprehended four male suspects believed to be involved in a series of motorcycle-riding hold-up incidents in Caloocan City.
The arrests came after a comprehensive month-long surveillance operation led by Police Colonel Ruben Lacuesta. The suspects were identified through an extensive review of CCTV camera footage along their routes.
The surveillance footage meticulously documented their involvement in various criminal activities, particularly hold-ups and snatchings.
The apprehended suspects have been identified as Jericho San Juan, 18 years old, and Christian Mark Flores, 22 years old, both residing in DM Compound, Barangay 73, Caloocan. Two minors, aged 15 and 17, from Barangay 74, Caloocan, were also taken into custody for their involvement in supporting the illegal activities of the group.
Their targets were typically pedestrians, including individuals walking, texting, or simply present outside their residences, with a particular focus on the Grace Park area in Caloocan.
The case gained public attention after an individual recognized the suspects and shared their images on social media in connection with their alleged victimization of several individuals.
Their most recent victim, Arien Dale Esguerra, 28 years old and residing on 9th Avenue, Barangay 104, Grace Park, was robbed of valuable items, including two iPhones valued at 80,000 pesos, another cellphone worth 10,000 pesos, and 30,000 pesos at cash.
During the arrest, the police successfully confiscated two unregistered motorcycles used in their operations, along with an improvised shotgun and various identification cards and ATM cards.
The suspects are now facing legal charges, including robbery and hold-up under Section 293 and possession of unlicensed firearms and bladed weapons under Republic Act 10591.
