SWIFT intervention by a police patrol team foiled an active utility theft on the historic Jones Bridge in Ermita on Tuesday evening, September 2, 2026, leading to the arrest of a 48-year-old suspect armed with an improvised firearm and a dagger.
Operatives from the Manila Police District’s Special Mobile Reaction Team (SMaRT) responded immediately after security guards flagged them down during routine patrols.
The guards reported a man actively tampering with power lines connected to the City Government of Manila’s electrical grid—a recurring issue that had repeatedly plunged the landmark bridge into darkness.
Responders caught the suspect red-handed cutting through live wires with a dagger knife.
A post-arrest search yielded a crudely crafted “pen gun” wrapped in black tape and loaded with a single .45-caliber round. Officers also recovered 30 meters of power cable, 25 meters of electrical wiring, and the weapon used in the crime.
The City Electrical Office issued a certification valuing the recovered wiring at ₱41,840.
The suspect faces formal charges including Theft under Article 308 of the Revised Penal Code and violations of Republic Act 10591, or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.
Inquest proceedings are being finalized for filing before the Manila City Prosecutor’s Office, while the recovered firearm was turned over to the Regional Civil Security Unit and MPD–Firearms Unit for verification.
NCRPO Officer-in-Charge PBGEN Christopher N. Abrahano commended the patrol team for its proactive response.
“This incident stands as clear proof that our operational standard of preparedness, prevention, and swift response works, halting the spread of criminality before it can take root,” PBGEN Abrahano stated. “What unfolded at Jones Bridge is a genuine testament to the prompt and responsive service we hold ourselves to.”
The NCRPO urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity around critical public utilities through local police stations or the emergency 911 hotline.
