ALBUERA, Leyte– A 27-year-old woman is now detained at the local police station after she was caught inside the residence of a Swiss national in Sitio Gungab, Barangay Poblacion, while allegedly attempting to steal valuables early morning Sunday, September 1.
Police identified the suspect only as “Tepa,” a married resident of Barangay Damula-an, Albuera. The victim was identified as “Cel,” 66, a Swiss national holding an Alien Certificate of Registration and residing in Barangay Poblacion.
According to Albuera police officer-in-charge PCPT Jose E. Bayona, the suspect allegedly gained entry to the victim’s home through the bathroom window at around 5:50 a.m. She was caught in the act and restrained by the homeowner before authorities arrived.
The incident was first reported by a family friend, alias “Leon,” who was monitoring the household’s CCTV system in real time. He immediately called the police after seeing the woman enter the house and take a wallet from the dining area.
Responding officers found the suspect still inside the residence. A body search yielded P2,088 in mixed denominations, including a P500 bill, one P1,000 bill, three P100 bills, and coins placed inside a black coin pouch.
CCTV footage corroborated the account, showing the suspect loitering outside the house before entering through the bathroom window.
The woman is now facing theft charges and remains in custody at the Albuera Municipal Police Station.
(ROBERT DEJON)
