BY: ANGELICA ARQUERO
A vendor’s cellphone was stolen in Barangay San Vicente, Baguio City on April 18 by a man who was caught on CCTV.
The suspect, seen posing as a customer at a burger stall, waited for the vendor to fall asleep before seizing the phone from the counter.
The victim, identified only as “Jelly,” said she was resting due to a headache after lunch. “I was confident because we’re familiar with the customer. We’ve seen him before,” she said.
The stolen phone was reportedly used for taking online orders, making it essential to the vendor’s livelihood.
Barangay Kagawad Bibiano Lipiano said the incident underscores the importance of securing valuables, especially at night. “We remind residents to lock windows and doors, especially at night, to prevent such incidents,” he added.
To deter future thefts, Barangay San Vicente has recently installed nine additional CCTV cameras.
Data from the Baguio City Police Office shows a drop in theft cases this year.
From January to April 2024, there were 77 recorded cases, compared to just 24 this year.
BCPO Public Information Officer PMaj. Marcy Grace Marron urged the public to remain vigilant. “Always secure your homes and vehicles. Report any suspicious activity to the authorities,” she said.
This marks the third theft incident recorded in the barangay this year.
