Man Steals Charging Cellphone from Small Shop in Valenzuela
A man was caught on camera after stealing cellphone that was left charging inside a small neighborhood store in Valenzuela City
The incident happened in Barangay Bignay shortly after six in the evening on Sunday, January 11, 2026, and was captured on the store’s CCTV camera.
In the video, the suspect appeared to be an ordinary customer at first. He stood in front of the store, calmly looking at the menu, giving no sign of suspicious behavior. After a short while, he stepped away from the counter.
When he returned, he positioned himself near a small service window and quietly grabbed the cellphone that was plugged in and charging.
The store owner, Irish Shaen Opema, only realized what happened after she stepped inside to ask for change. Her companion was busy washing dishes at the time. When she came back, she noticed the charger hanging with no phone attached. That was when she checked the CCTV and saw the theft.
The stolen cellphone was worth around P6,000. More painful for the victim was the loss of nine thousand pesos stored in the phone’s e-wallet. Irish, a working student, shared that the money did not belong to her alone.
She serves as the class treasurer, and the amount was meant for school-related expenses. Losing it has caused her great stress and worry.
CCTV footage also showed the suspect escaping on a bicycle. He was seen heading toward Hulo Street before turning to Galas Street, a route believed to lead toward Meycauayan, Bulacan. Barangay officials believe the suspect may not be a local resident, noting that his face was partly covered and unfamiliar to them.
In response, barangay officials and police have increased security in the area and are continuing their search for the suspect. Residents are also being reminded to stay alert, especially in small businesses where personal belongings are often left within reach.
In another post, a man arrested for robbery-extortion & possession of firearm in Caloocan
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