Caught on CCTV: Ipit Gang Member Steals Mobile Phone of Student in Sta Mesa, Manila
PICKPOCKETING INCIDENT – An Ipit gang member was caught on CCTV as he targeted a student’s bag in Santa Mesa, Manila.
Pickpocketing is a type of theft where someone steals valuables or money from another person’s pockets, purse, or bag without their knowledge. It’s often done in crowded places where people are close together, such as public transportation, markets, or tourist attractions.
Pickpockets use various techniques to distract their victims, such as bumping into them, asking for directions, or causing a commotion. Pickpockets often work in groups, with one member creating a distraction while another performs the theft.
![Ipit Gang Member](http://philnews.ph/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/pickpocketer2.jpg)
While the victim is distracted, the pickpocket skillfully removes items from their pockets or bags without them noticing. After taking the valuables, pickpockets quickly leave the scene to avoid detection.
Recently, an alleged member of Ipit gang was captured on CCTV stealing a student’s cellphone. In the CCTV footage, a man dressed in white can be seen walking along Ramon Magsaysay Boulevard. Moments later, he turns back as if following someone.
In another CCTV clip, the man is shown behind three students, reaching into the bag of the student in front of him. The victim’s cell phone was taken, and the culprit quickly walked away.
![Ipit Gang Member](http://philnews.ph/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/pickpocketer.jpg)
According to the barangay, most members of the Ipit Gang are males who blend in with students boarding jeeps. Sometimes, they change clothes after stealing from their victims.
The barangay noted that the number of thefts this year has increased significantly.
The barangay has coordinated with the police to pursue the suspects and agreed to set up an outpost for increased security. The incident reminds everyone to stay vigilant and cautious, especially in crowded areas, to prevent becoming victims of such crimes.
In a previous report, 3 alleged gang members in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu beat young woman
The social media users expressed their reactions to the incident: