CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — An armed robbery suspect, later identified as a member of the notorious Ozamiz “Martilyo Gang” and a fugitive wanted for murder and prison escape, was arrested by concerned citizens following a tense chase and commotion along Osmeña Street on Thursday afternoon, January 8, 2026.
The suspect was cornered at the corner of Florentino and Osmeña Streets after allegedly robbing a victim of a bag containing a large amount of cash. According to witnesses, the victim cried for help after being held up by two unidentified men, prompting nearby residents and bystanders to intervene.
Authorities said the suspect attempted to flee the scene but was blocked by alert citizens. He then reportedly drew a firearm and tried to carjack a taxi, but failed to gain entry. In a desperate attempt to escape, he seized a parked motorcycle, but was unable to start it.
This allowed residents to subdue him. In the midst of the struggle, one bystander struck the suspect on the head with a stone, causing him to fall. The firearm he was carrying was immediately seized by the crowd.
One of the suspect’s companions managed to escape and is now the subject of a manhunt. Police believe the fleeing accomplice may be in possession of the victim’s stolen belongings.
An ambulance was later called to the area as the suspect sustained injuries after being restrained by residents. Responding personnel from the Cagayan de Oro City Police Office, with assistance from a traffic enforcer assigned in the area, took the suspect into custody and recovered a short firearm.
Initial investigation revealed that the suspect is a resident of another province in Northern Mindanao and is facing a standing warrant for murder. He was also confirmed to be a fugitive who previously escaped from detention.
Police are continuing their investigation to identify the second suspect and to determine the full extent of the crimes committed. Authorities also commended the vigilance of the public but reminded citizens to avoid taking the law into their own hands and to prioritize personal safety while reporting crimes.
The incident caused a brief disruption in traffic along Osmeña Street as police secured the area and conducted initial processing.