CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — A series of swift and coordinated police operations by the Police Regional Office 10 (PRO-10) led to the arrest of several suspects involved in separate theft and robbery incidents across the city between March 15 and 19, 2026, underscoring authorities’ intensified campaign against street-level crimes.
The first arrest took place on March 15 in Zone 1, Barangay Baikingon, where a 33-year-old suspect was apprehended for allegedly stealing a gas tank valued at PhP2,500 from a local store. Police said the suspect was positively identified by the victim through closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage, which became crucial in tracking him down. The stolen item was later recovered after it was traced to a store in Barangay Iponan where it had been sold.
A day later, on March 16, a 23-year-old fish vendor fell victim to theft in Barangay Cugman after being robbed of PhP2,000 in sales proceeds. In a display of quick thinking, the victim chased and managed to apprehend the suspect before turning him over to responding police officers. Authorities recovered the stolen cash along with a bag believed to have been used in the commission of the crime.
Police also reported a major breakthrough on the night of March 18 in Barangay Tablon, where a hot pursuit operation led to the arrest of two suspects linked to a robbery incident involving approximately PhP9,000. Responding officers were able to recover cash, several mobile phones, a motorcycle, and a .45 caliber firearm with ammunition from the suspects’ possession—raising concerns over the use of illegal firearms in local crimes.
In a separate incident along the Puntod–Bonbon Bridge on the same night, one suspect was arrested while his accomplice remains at large. The suspects reportedly threatened two minor victims with a bladed weapon before taking their mobile phones. A joint response by police and barangay personnel resulted in the immediate recovery of the stolen items and the arrest of one of the perpetrators, while a manhunt is ongoing for the remaining suspect.
Police Brigadier General Christopher N. Abrahano, Regional Director of PRO-10, commended the operating units for their rapid and coordinated response, emphasizing the critical role of timely reporting in crime prevention.
“These successful operations highlight that when incidents are reported immediately, police can respond faster, pursue suspects without delay, and prevent further victimization. Crime can be stopped when the public and the police work hand in hand,” Abrahano said.
He also called on the public to remain vigilant and proactive in reporting suspicious activities.
“We call on everyone to report suspicious activities without hesitation. Do not delay—immediately inform the nearest police station or call 911. Your prompt action can save lives, protect property, and help us bring offenders to justice,” he added.
All arrested suspects are currently under police custody, while charges for theft, robbery, and violations of existing laws are being prepared for filing in court. Authorities assured the public that operations against criminal elements will continue as part of efforts to maintain peace and order in the city.