Police in Cebu City have apprehended a suspect following the theft of a mobile phone from an intoxicated friend, an incident that stemmed from a disagreement over online betting winnings.
Suspect Confesses After Follow-Up Operation
In a follow-up operation conducted by local authorities, 33-year-old Emmanuel Tojeno, an unemployed resident of Barangay Lahug, was taken into custody. The arrest is connected to a theft that occurred along Gorordo Avenue in Barangay Kamputhaw, Cebu City, on Saturday, December 20, 2025.
Victim's Report Leads to Arrest
The case unfolded when the victim, identified only as alias Christian, 33 years old, sought help from the Abellana Police Station. According to his statement, he was drunk at the time of the incident and had fallen asleep by the roadside.
An eyewitness reportedly saw Tojeno take the phone from the sleeping victim's pocket. The device was valued at approximately P5,000. Police immediately acted on this information, proceeding to the suspect's location which resulted in his capture.
Motive Revealed: Unsettled Online Gambling Debt
During investigation, Emmanuel Tojeno admitted to the crime. He confessed that he and the victim had engaged in online gambling together. Tojeno claimed that the victim did not pay him after losing a bet.
Seizing the opportunity when Christian fell asleep, Tojeno allegedly took the phone and fled the scene. He later disclosed that he had pawned the stolen device for P200.
The swift action by the Abellana Police, prompted by a civilian witness, led to the quick resolution of this case, highlighting community cooperation in addressing local crime.
