Two suspected thieves, including a minor, found themselves in a tight spot after being trapped inside the very store they had just robbed in Dalaguete, Cebu. The early morning burglary was foiled when the store owner awoke to suspicious noises.
Early Morning Burglary Foiled in Barangay Tapon
The incident occurred at approximately 3:45 in the morning on Friday, December 5, 2025, in Barangay Tapon, Dalaguete. The complainant was Barangay Councilor Ricardo Normalito Borja, 63, who was awakened by sounds coming from his sari-sari store.
According to Police Major Vincent Zozobrado, chief of the Dalaguete Police Station, the councilor investigated the noise and discovered that thieves had broken into his business. "The victim woke up sensing that someone was rummaging through his store. Upon checking, he chanced upon the suspects," Major Zozobrado revealed.
Suspects Trapped with Stolen Cash
The two suspects were identified only as alias John, 18, and a 13-year-old minor, both residents of the area. They had managed to enter the store and steal a significant amount of money.
Authorities recovered a backpack containing coins and paper bills with a total value exceeding P2,000. However, their escape plan failed when they became trapped inside the store's premises. Councilor Borja promptly alerted the police, leading to the swift arrest of the duo.
Legal Consequences for the Arrested Duo
The two suspects faced different legal paths following their arrest. The 18-year-old, alias John, is facing formal charges for burglary and was detained at the police station.
In accordance with Philippine law regarding minors in conflict with the law, the 13-year-old was immediately turned over by the police to the custody of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) for proper intervention and processing.
Major Zozobrado emphasized the quick response that led to the arrest, stating that the victim's immediate call to authorities was crucial. The case highlights concerns over youth involvement in property crimes in local communities.
