Suspect in Streetlight Wire Theft Escapes Into Forest in Puerto Princesa
A suspected thief allegedly cut the wire of a streetlight along Pablico Road 2 in Barangay Tiniguiban, Puerto Princesa City.
On Sunday evening, September 13, 2026, the Facebook page We R1 At Your Service Official shared photos of the wires allegedly stolen by the unidentified suspect. The post quickly went viral and received various reactions from netizens.
According to an initial report from the Anti-Crime Task Force, four streetlights in the area were found to be no longer working after their wires were allegedly cut. The incident reportedly happened at around 8:20 p.m.
A resident identified as Ronnie, 40, said he had noticed a suspicious man repeatedly returning to the area and spending time near the streetlights.
Ronnie reportedly became concerned that the wires might be stolen. He had previously cleared some of the thick vegetation around a streetlight in front of his home so he could keep a closer watch on the area.
When one of the streetlights suddenly went out that evening, Ronnie allegedly saw the man cutting its wire and heading toward the front of his house to pull out the remaining cable. He then alerted the barangay tanods for assistance.
The barangay tanods immediately chased the suspect, but the man reportedly ran toward a nearby forested area and managed to get away.
Authorities later received a call through 911 requesting assistance. Police officers from Station 2, barangay tanods, and local residents gathered in the area and searched for the suspect, but he could no longer be located.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to identify and locate the person responsible.
Residents were also advised to remain alert and immediately contact the police or call 911 if the suspect returns to the area or if they notice any suspicious activity involving the streetlights.
In another post, Tondo residents beat thief linked to series of theft incidents
The social media users expressed their reactions to the post:
