E-Bike Driver Arrested in Cebu City After Violent Clash Over Passenger Competition
A 23-year-old e-bike driver, identified by the alias Cyrill, has been apprehended by authorities following a physical altercation with another driver over a passenger dispute. The incident occurred on Wednesday night, January 21, 2026, along F. Jaca Street in Barangay Inayawan, Cebu City, highlighting tensions in the local transportation sector.
Details of the Assault and Police Investigation
According to the Inayawan Police Station, the victim, a 46-year-old man using the alias Roger and also a resident of the same barangay, sought assistance at their office after sustaining injuries. He reported wounds to his head and the right side of his eye, which he attributed to the altercation with Cyrill.
Roger claimed that during their argument, Cyrill bit him, escalating the confrontation. However, in his defense, Cyrill provided a different account of the events leading up to the violence.
Conflicting Accounts from the Suspect and Victim
Cyrill explained that the two encountered each other while driving their e-bikes on the road. He alleged that Roger suddenly attacked him first, prompting him to retaliate in self-defense. This retaliation, he admitted, involved punching Roger, which ultimately led to a brawl that caused a disturbance in the area.
The suspect further revealed that this was not the first time they had clashed. He stated that a previous disagreement occurred the night before, when Roger allegedly cut in line to take a passenger, despite Cyrill being first in the queue.
“I just told him that next time, whoever is first should get the passenger first,” Cyrill recounted, emphasizing his frustration over the unfair competition.
Cyrill believes that Roger harbored resentment towards him, which motivated the initial attack. While he acknowledged regretting his actions due to anger, he firmly denied the accusation of biting the victim.
Legal Consequences and Ongoing Proceedings
Currently, Cyrill is detained at the police station and faces formal charges of Physical Injury. The case underscores the growing challenges in managing disputes among e-bike drivers in urban areas like Cebu City, where competition for passengers can lead to violent outcomes.
Authorities are continuing their investigation to gather more evidence and witness statements, aiming to ensure a fair resolution in this contentious matter.
