Photo courtesy of PNP/Facebook.
Authorities arrested 16 individuals and rescued a minor during an operation against underground cable theft in San Juan City, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said.
The joint operation of the Eastern Police District and San Juan City Police Station was conducted in the early hours of May 5, 2026 along Araullo Street in Barangay Addition Hills.
Police said the suspects were caught in the act after a tip from a concerned citizen alerted authorities to ongoing cutting and hauling of underground copper cables.
One of those arrested was identified only as “Gabe,” while another suspect believed to be the group’s leader, known as “Pipoy,” remained at large.
A minor was also found at the scene and was turned over to proper authorities for assistance and safeguarding.
Recovered items included copper cables owned by a telecommunications company valued at about Php 456,159.49, along with tools used in the alleged theft such as bolt cutters, steel bars, and a closed van.
Police said the suspects were now facing charges for theft under the Revised Penal Code and violations of the Anti-Cable Television and Cable Internet Tapping Act.
Authorities said the operation was part of continuing efforts to protect critical infrastructure and ensure uninterrupted public utility services.