Mananga ‘robber’ falls in follow-up chase

CEBU, Philippines – A “notorious snatcher” operating near the Mananga Bridge in Barangay Tabunok, Talisay City was arrested by authorities yesterday morning.

The suspect was identified as Gennes Libusana, 35, single, resident of Sitio Mananga, Barangay Tabunok.

Last Tuesday, Lorelle Cachero, 33, married, resident of Barangay Lawaan II, Talisay City, sought police assistance after her bag was allegedly grabbed by the suspect while she was onboard a public utility jeepney while heading towards their house.

Mananga Bridge in Talisay is known to be a haven for illegal activities.

Jeepney passengers have been advised to take extra vigilance when traversing the said place since robbers and snatchers and all forms of criminals reportedly do their modus operandi there as they could easily run towards secluded areas.

In the past, a police officer was killed when he tried to chase a robber and proceeded to the row of houses in Mananga. The area was even once dubbed as “Sitio Kawatan" as criminals run towards the place after victimizing people.

According to the police, the suspect grabbed Cachero's shoulder bag worth P5,000 which contained cellpone worth P9,900 and other valuables.

Senior Police Officer 1 Mikie Espina and his group conducted hot pursuit operation that night but they failed to locate the suspect.

However, when they received information about the suspect’s location, they immediately proceeded to the area. The suspect was arrested and the police were able to recover the things that he allegedly stole from Cachero.

Libusana was placed behind bars. Appropriate charges will be filed against him, the police said. — Gabriel C. Bonjoc of BANAT News