Davao City – Chaos erupted in Barangay 23-C, Isla Verde, after furious residents cornered and restrained a 31-year-old man, known only as “Jay,” who was caught in the act of molesting a six-year-old girl.
The suspect was immediately subdued by neighbors in Purok 3-D before police and Task Force Davao operatives swooped in to take him into custody.
According to Sta. Ana Police Station Commander PMAJ Richeen Lagnayo, the arrest was made possible through the quick report of a concerned citizen and the swift coordination between barangay officials and the community.
The young victim is now safe under her family’s care, with the Women and Children’s Protection Desk (WCPD) providing assistance to ensure her protection and recovery.
Authorities revealed that the suspect appeared unstable, prompting drug testing while he remained detained at Sta. Ana Police Station 1. He now faces charges of Act of Lasciviousness under Republic Act No. 7610, the law protecting children against abuse and exploitation.
The incident has sparked outrage in the community, with residents demanding justice and vowing vigilance to protect children from predators.