Bystanders gang up on "robber"

CEBU, Philippines - Bystanders ganged up on a man the other day for attempting to rob and choke a woman at a national highway in barangay Lawaan II, Talisay City.

Ian de Gracia Labajo, 31, of sitio Camp 2, barangay Jaclupan of Talisay City sustained bruises in the different parts of his body. The police identified the woman as Eliza Sarausad, 47, a resident of sitio San Isidro, barangay Perilos, Carcar City.

PO3 Mikie Espina said Labajo and Sarausad were on board a passenger multicab that originated from Rotunda, Carcar City.

In Lawaan II, Labajo allegedly snatched Sarausad's handbag which contained P1,300, a 1211 Nokia cellphone worth P1,400, a pouch containing some coins and some other valuables.

Espina said Sarausad put up resistance and then Labajo reached for her neck.

But Sarausad shouted for help and bystanders in the area responded.

They hauled Labajo out from the multicab and beat him.

Police recovered from Labajo a pouch containing an improvised tube burner and a plastic tooter that are believed to be drug paraphernalia.

He is now detained at the Talisay City Police detention cell. – THE FREEMAN