EDSA Traffic Foils Car Thief's Escape

Photo courtesy of Balita

A carjacker was arrested in Quezon City after stealing a taxi from an elderly driver and getting stuck in traffic. The incident occurred on Sunday, February 1, on E. Rodriguez Avenue. The carjacker was apprehended by police and brought to the Cubao Police Station following a chase that ended when traffic hemmed him in on EDSA.

The senior taxi driver reported picking up the suspect for a ride to Mindanao Avenue, where the carjacker threatened him with an ice pick and forced him out of the car. Fortunately, a nearby security guard assisted, allowing police to pursue and recover the taxi. The suspect abandoned the vehicle due to the heavy traffic and was captured at the corner of Ermin Garcia Street.

P/Lt. Col. Joy Leanza of the Quezon City Police District stated that the suspect had no choice but to leave the taxi when trapped in traffic, leading to his arrest. The suspect confessed to the theft but denied harming the driver. Authorities tracked him down with the cooperation of the victim and witnesses.

The police revealed that the suspect had previous arrests related to drug issues in 2023. Now, he faces charges under the anti-carnapping act and has been detained. The taxi was successfully returned to its owner, ensuring the elderly driver could resume his livelihood unharmed, reported Balita.

Key Takeaways

• A carjacker in Quezon City was caught after getting stuck in traffic.

• The suspect threatened the taxi driver with an ice pick to steal the vehicle.

• Police reaffirmed the suspect's criminal history with drug-related offenses.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now from Balita 2026-02-03