3 Individuals Nabbed for Stealing from Payment Machines Outside Convenience Stores in Quezon City
Three individuals were arrested after they stole from two payment machines outside separate convenience stores in Quezon City.
Last December 12, 2024, the first incident took place when the suspects targeted a convenience store along Commonwealth Avenue, Barangay North Fairview. The suspects managed to steal around P80,000 from the payment machine.
A few days later, the suspects struck again, this time at another branch on Dolar Street in the same barangay. Along with a minor, they stole around P40,000 from the payment machine.
According to Police Lieutenant Colonel Geronimo Dimayuga Jr., Commander of Fairview Police Station 5, the payment machines were placed outside and left vulnerable. They were covered with tarps, which made it difficult to see people transacting at the machines.
The suspects appeared to know exactly how to open the machines, using a hard stick and targeting specific points to break in.
Thanks to CCTV footage in the area, the police were able to trace the suspects’ movements and track them down during a follow-up operation. The investigation had been part of their efforts to prevent crimes.
Dimayuga emphasized the importance of CCTV systems in solving cases like these. He said the footage helped police track where the suspects went, making it a valuable tool for their investigation.
Following the robbery, the payment machine company has also promised to improve security. They plan to introduce newer, more advanced machines, potentially including cameras like those in ATMs.
The police are still investigating whether the motorcycles used by the suspects were stolen, as the vehicles lacked license plates.
The three suspects, aged 24, 21, and 44, have admitted to the crime and expressed regret for their actions, especially given the upcoming holiday season. The culprits face charges of robbery and are now in police custody, while the minor involved is under the care of the DSWD.
The social media users expressed their reactions to the incident:
