3 thieves busted in La Union

DAGUPAN CITY — The police arrested three suspected Metro Manila-based thieves during an operation in San Juan, La Union on Saturday.

Authorities identified the suspects as a 24-year-old man and two women aged 31 and 36, all residents of Metro Manila.

They were apprehended during a routine security check, which also led to the recovery of a stolen mobile phone.

Police said the trio is linked to a long-monitored criminal group believed to be operating in Metro Manila and nearby regions.

Responding policemen recovered the stolen phone from the suspects after they were alerted by the victim’s companion.

The suspects were taken to the police station for proper disposition and for the filing of appropriate charges.

Police Brig. Gen. Dindo Reyes, regional police director, attributed the swift arrest to sustained police visibility in the area.

“The immediate reporting of the incident, paired with our officers’ presence, was vital,” Reyes said.

“This underscores how visibility in public spaces serves as a strong deterrent and ensures a rapid response to crime.”

The Police Regional Office 1 said it continues to deploy personnel in key tourist areas and convergence points across the region to enhance public safety, deter criminal activity, and provide immediate assistance to residents and visitors. /gsg