In a brazen act of criminal audacity, a KFC fast-food outlet located mere steps from the Pampanga Police Provincial Office (PPPO) headquarters was robbed in the early hours of December 9. The incident, which was discovered and reported the following day, saw thieves make off with a significant haul of goods and electronics.
Details of the Brazen Overnight Heist
The robbery took place at the KFC branch situated on Capitol Boulevard in Barangay Sto. Nino, City of San Fernando. According to the account of Senior Manager Hevsei Martin David, the suspects forcibly entered the establishment around 2:00 AM. Security footage revealed the criminals forcing open the glass door and a sliding door to gain entry.
Once inside, the perpetrators targeted the restaurant's vault. They employed power equipment to break it open. The manager discovered the breached vault upon arriving at the store, leading to the official report being filed at 12:20 PM on December 10.
Stolen Items and Startling Proximity to Police
The stolen items were valued at a total of P193,388. The loot included various goods and a Samsung Galaxy device. Notably, the police report did not specify if any cash sales from the store were taken, leaving the total financial loss potentially higher.
The most startling aspect of the crime is the location. The targeted KFC is only a few meters away from the Pampanga Police Provincial Office (PPPO). It appears that the on-duty police officers at the provincial headquarters did not hear the commotion from the nearby robbery. The boldness of the suspects, who were undeterred by the close proximity to the main police force, has raised concerns.
Police Response and Ongoing Investigation
The Pampanga Police Director has reportedly acted on the incident, launching an investigation. However, as of the latest reports, the robbers remain at large and have not yet been apprehended. The case highlights challenges in preventing bold, opportunistic crimes even in areas considered secure due to the presence of law enforcement.
Authorities are likely reviewing the CCTV footage extensively and pursuing all leads to identify and capture the individuals responsible for this audacious heist so close to their own doorstep.
