QC cops track down, neutralize robbers through GPS of stolen cellphone

Scene of the Crime Operatives inspect the crime scene where two suspected robbers died in an encounter with officers of the Novaliches police in Quezon City Thursday night, August 1, 2019. (Photo from Quezon City Police District)

MANILA, Philippines — Two robbers who just stole valuables including a global positioning system (GPS)-capable cellphone were tracked down and killed following a shootout with pursuing policemen in Quezon City on Thursday night.

A report from the Novaliches Police said two robbery victims–a woman and her son–appeared before the police station and reported that three men onboard a motorcycle took their bag with an undetermined amount of cash, a cellphone, and their Suzuki Raider R150 motorcycle.

The incident happened in Barangay San Bartolome at around 11:30 p.m.

Police said Friday that the woman gave her cellphone number to the officers and told them that the GPS feature of the device was still active and its exact location can be tracked down. 

Police then found that based on the GPS, the robbers were still roaming in the same village, probably waiting for more hapless victims to pass by.

Operatives then went to the area and spotted the three men on board two motorcycles. When accosted, the robbers drew their guns and opened fire at the policemen.

A shootout ensued, instantly killing two of the robbers. One of their cohorts evaded arrest on board the motorcycle he was riding.

A manhunt operation was launched against the man.

Police recovered from the crime scene short firearms of undisclosed caliber and the stolen belongings of the victims. /jpv