Woman Apprehended in Talisay City for Alleged Stolen Motorcycle Parts Trade
In a coordinated law enforcement effort, a woman was arrested on Tuesday evening, February 24, 2026, for her suspected involvement in the purchase and sale of stolen motorcycle engines and components. The operation was conducted jointly by the Highway Patrol Group (HPG) 7 and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) 7, targeting illegal activities in the region.
Details of the Arrest and Investigation
The suspect, identified as Ellen Dorig Balanggie, 44, a resident of Mananga II, Barangay Tabunok in Talisay City, was taken into custody during a patrol that spanned from 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM. According to Police Lieutenant Colonel Wildemar Tiu, Regional Chief of HPG 7, the investigation originated from a complaint filed by a victim whose motorcycle had been stolen. Through personal inquiry, the victim discovered that his motorcycle had been dismantled, with its engine displayed for sale at the suspect's establishment.
Forensic evidence confirmed the engine's ownership when its engine number matched the documents held by the complainant. During the operation, authorities confiscated 13 motorcycle engines and engine blocks from various brands. The owner of the business failed to produce any legal documentation for the purchase or sale of these items, raising further suspicions.
Uncovering a Larger Fencing Operation
Intelligence monitoring by HPG 7 revealed that the suspect's shop had become a hub for stolen motorcycles, which were disassembled and their parts, such as handlebars, lights, and tail lights, were sold separately. Tiu noted that the suspect attempted to hide additional engines in a stockroom upon noticing the police presence, but operatives intervened to prevent this. The seized engines will now undergo forensic examination through macro-etching to trace their true owners based on records from the Land Transportation Office (LTO).
The suspect faces charges under Section 6 of Presidential Decree 1612 (Anti-Fencing Law) and Section 6 of Republic Act 10883 (New Anti-Carnapping Law). Authorities believe this illegal business has been operational for an extended period, with numerous parts from stolen motorcycles already sold to unsuspecting buyers.
This case highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat vehicle-related crimes in the area, emphasizing the importance of vigilance and legal compliance in the automotive trade.
