CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga — In a swift and successful operation, Central Luzon police arrested four suspects and recovered 19 tons of stolen molasses in Abucay, Bataan on Thursday (August 3), as they cracked down on anti-fencing law violators.
Based on intelligence provided by an informant, the Regional Special Operations Group 3 and the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 3 led by Lt. Col. Jay Dimaandal, RSOG chief, RMFB3 launched a joint operation.
The suspects were caught red-handed while pilfering the truckload of molasses belonging to their employer, with an estimated value of P335,000. The theft occurred along Roman Hway in Brgy. Mabatang, Abucay, Bataan.
Four individuals were successfully apprehended during the operation. The suspects were identified as Franklin Cañete y Patrata, a driver from Brgy. San Ildefonso, Magalang, Pampanga; Jhun Miguel y Salazar, a helper; Jimmy Carag y Mariano, a driver – both residents of Cauayan City, Isabela; and Joel Austria y Elvambuena, a helper and resident of Abucay, Bataan.
However, a certain Freddie Batilo remains at large and is being sought by the authorities.
Authorities managed to seize a 10-Wheeler Truck containing the entire 19 tons of stolen molasses. Additionally, they recovered a 12-Wheeler empty truck, presumably used in their illicit activities.
The apprehended suspects, along with the recovered evidence, were taken to Abucay MPS for proper handling. The police are now preparing criminal charges against the perpetrators, accusing them of Qualified Theft and violation of the Anti-Fencing Law.
Brig. Gen. Jose S. Hidalgo Jr., PRO regional director, commended the operating units for their swift and successful action, emphasizing the importance of such operations in deterring criminal activities.
Hidalgo expressed hope that these arrests would serve as a deterrent to potential law-breakers and reaffirmed the commitment of the police force to maintaining the safety and security of the community. (UnliNews Online)
