By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

A thief was collared by police following a chase in Barangay Zone 2, Murcia, Negros Occidental over the weekend.

Police identified the suspect as 25-year-old Jared Villanueva, a resident of Barangay Estefania, Bacolod City.

Official reports by the Murcia Municipal Police Station said Villanueva allegedly victimized 69-year-old Herme Reyes, a store owner.

Police said Villanueva entered Reyes’ store and tried to steal the victim’s bag. Reyes, however, managed to take back his bag, although the suspect managed to take the victim’s wallet and rushed back to his motorcycle.

Reyes shouted for help from nearby bystanders, who immediately gave chase.

Upon reaching the corner of Rizal-Miranda Streets, two police officers, who were conducting a motorcycle patrol, spotted the commotion and joined the chase, resulting in Villanueva’s arrest.

Police recovered the victim’s wallet, which contained P29,500 in cash, and the suspect’s motorcycle.

Murcia police noted, a drug tooter was also recovered from the suspect.

Villanueva is presently facing theft charges and is detained at the Murcia Municipal Police Station./DGB, WDJ