Police in Cebu City have taken a man into custody following an alleged theft that targeted a sleeping, intoxicated friend along a major city avenue.
Details of the Incident on Gorordo Avenue
The arrest stemmed from an incident reported on Saturday, December 20, 2025. According to a report from the Abellana Police Station, the victim, a 33-year-old man identified only as "Christian," had fallen asleep along the roadside on Gorordo Avenue in Barangay Kamputhaw. Christian stated that he was heavily intoxicated at the time.
Upon waking up, he discovered that his mobile phone, valued at approximately P5,000, was missing from his pocket. He promptly reported the loss to the authorities.
Witness Leads to Arrest and Confession
Law enforcement officials launched an investigation. Their operation moved swiftly after a witness came forward and identified the person who allegedly took the device. The suspect was pinpointed as Emmanuel Tojeno, 33, an unemployed resident of Barangay Lahug in Cebu City.
Upon his arrest, Tojeno did not deny the allegations. He confessed to the crime, revealing to police that he had already pawned the stolen phone for a mere P200.
Motive and Facing Charges
During questioning, the suspect provided a motive for his actions. Tojeno claimed that he and the victim had an unsettled debt related to an online gambling bet. He alleged that Christian refused to pay him after losing the bet. This dispute, according to Tojeno, prompted him to take the phone while his friend was asleep and vulnerable.
Despite the claimed motive, the act constitutes theft under the law. Emmanuel Tojeno is currently detained and is facing formal theft charges for his alleged actions. The case is now proceeding through the legal system.
