Busted water pipe foils Rizal pawnshop heist

MANILA, Philippines - Robbers called off their plan to rob a pawnshop in Teresa town in Rizal on Tuesday because of a busted water pipe.

While digging their way toward the Tambunting pawnshop located along M. L. Quezon Avenue in Barangay San Gabriel, the robbers accidentally hit a water pipe, cutting off water supply in the neighborhood.

The residents reported the busted water pipe to the Teresa Water District, which then sent workers to the area to conduct repairs.

The workers were surprised upon discovering a big hole leading to the pawnshop at around 12:30 p.m. yesterday.

Pawnshop manager Ma. Teresa Enriquez, 45, promptly went to the local police station to report the failed robbery try. 

“The residents were surprised that their water was cut off. They saw the busted pipe and reported it to the water management,” said a police officer. “It turned out that the busted water pipe prevented the robbery at the pawnshop.”

When the workers of the Teresa Water District opened the drainage where the busted pipe was located, they were surprised to see the big hole and further inspection showed that it led to the pawnshop.

Policemen recovered inside the tunnel two flashlights, two crowbars, two nylon ropes, a pressure pump, and a pail used to move soil.

Police were still investigating the case.