ZAMBOANGA CITY — Personnel from the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) apprehended three minors allegedly involved in a theft incident aboard the passenger vessel M/V Maria Erlina while it was transiting the Basilan Sea in the early hours of February 11, 2026.
According to the Coast Guard District Southwestern Mindanao (CGDSWM), the incident came to light at around 4:00 a.m. after a crew member reported that a passenger had been robbed while on board the vessel. In response, Coast Guard Sea Marshals immediately conducted a roving patrol inside the ship, leading to the interception of three suspects who were later identified as minors.
Authorities said the suspects allegedly took cash and valuables from the passenger. During the operation, Coast Guard personnel recovered ₱20,990 in cash and two pairs of gold earrings believed to belong to the victim. However, some of the stolen items—including the passenger’s bag and identification cards—were reportedly thrown into the sea before the suspects were apprehended.
Initial interviews conducted by Coast Guard personnel revealed that the minors were allegedly instructed by an adult individual residing in Jolo to carry out the theft. The revelation raised concerns among authorities about the possible involvement of an organized group exploiting minors to commit crimes in maritime routes.
Upon the vessel’s arrival at the Port of Zamboanga, the PCG carried out a formal inventory of the recovered items and documented the incident through a blotter entry. The minors were subsequently turned over to Police Station 11 for proper handling and the filing of appropriate charges in accordance with existing laws concerning juvenile offenders.
The PCG emphasized that the swift action of Coast Guard Sea Marshals helped prevent further incidents and ensured the safety of passengers aboard the vessel. Authorities reiterated their commitment to maintaining security across maritime transport routes in the Zamboanga Peninsula and nearby waters.
Meanwhile, maritime authorities urged passengers to remain vigilant during sea travel and to promptly report any suspicious activities to ship crew members or security personnel to help prevent crimes at sea. Investigations are ongoing to identify and locate the alleged adult mastermind who reportedly instructed the minors to carry out the theft.