Manila Cable Theft: Two Arrested for Causing Blackout on España Blvd

Photo courtesy of Manila Bulletin

In a bold theft that plunged parts of Sampaloc, Manila, into darkness, two suspects have been arrested following a quick response by the Manila Police District (MPD) Station 4. The incident occurred along España Boulevard when underground power cables were stolen, leading to a significant power outage.

The suspects, known only by their aliases as JP, 26, and Mario, 40, are residents of Algeciras Street in Sampaloc. They were presented to Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso, who condemned their actions, highlighting the threat such crimes pose to the city's development efforts.

Investigations reveal that JP and Mario are no strangers to crime, having previously been apprehended for stealing telecommunications cables. This recent theft comes even as the city has heavily invested in infrastructure improvements, such as underground power lines, to enhance both lighting and safety along major roads.

The stolen cables, valued at approximately 47,000 PHP (around 27,000 Thai Baht), were promptly recovered from the suspects. This decisive operation was spearheaded by Lt. Col. Joven Gerong, Commander of MPD Station 4, under the leadership of MPD District Director, Police Brig. Gen. Arnold Abad. The police acted swiftly on urgent orders from Mayor Domagoso.

Lt. Col. Gerong encouraged public vigilance, urging citizens to report any suspicious activities through the emergency number, 911. He emphasised that community cooperation is crucial to averting similar incidents in the future.

Remarkably, the suspects targeted the cables amid severe weather, with storms and monsoon rains battering the area. Authorities suspect these individuals may be part of a larger syndicate targeting public infrastructure for scrap or resale, highlighting a broader issue affecting urban areas.

Currently, the suspects are detained at MPD Station 4, with charges being prepared against them. This operation forms part of the MPD's intensified patrol and crime prevention initiative, aligned with directives from the Philippine National Police Chief, PGen. Nicolas Torre III.

As Manila continues to upgrade its infrastructure, ensuring its protection against such nefarious activities remains a top priority. The city, while modernising, must also tackle the challenges posed by those who exploit these advancements for illegal gains.

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Manila Bulletin 2025-07-29