DAVAO CITY – Police are searching for eight unidentified suspects believed to be behind a daring pre-dawn burglary that left a gadget store in Toril, Davao City, stripped of more than ₱1.84 million worth of iPhones and cash.
According to the Toril Police Station, the burglary occurred at around 3:13 a.m. on June 24, when three male suspects were caught on CCTV forcibly entering RAD Gadgets using a bolt cutter to destroy the store’s padlock. Another suspect was seen standing outside the establishment, allegedly serving as a lookout while the break-in was underway.
Further investigation revealed that the burglary was allegedly carried out by a group of eight individuals—six men and two women.
Authorities said the suspects fled the scene aboard a white Toyota Grandia van bearing a tampered license plate marked “NB 788,” making it more difficult for investigators to trace the vehicle.
Police said the group made off with 101 iPhones, consisting of 16 brand-new units and 85 second-hand units, with a combined estimated value of ₱1,822,919. The suspects also allegedly stole ₱24,500 in cash, bringing the total value of the stolen property to approximately ₱1.85 million.
In a bid to identify the perpetrators, the Davao City Forensic Unit has conducted a latent fingerprint examination at the crime scene. Investigators are also reviewing CCTV footage and pursuing follow-up operations to track down and arrest those responsible.
Meanwhile, RAD Gadgets announced the temporary closure of its Toril branch following the incident.
In a statement posted on social media, the store management informed customers that operations would remain suspended until police complete their investigation.
“It is with sadness that we inform everyone that RAD Gadgets Toril was burglarized early in the morning of June 24. We will be temporarily closed until the police investigation is completed. Thank you for your understanding and continued support,” the management said.
Authorities continue to appeal to the public for any information that could help identify the suspects or locate the getaway vehicle. The investigation remains ongoing.