A 52-year-old male passenger was arrested after allegedly attempting to steal a driver’s wallet in Tondo on Sunday night, Boy Gonzales reported.

According to a report from the Manila Police District – Delpan Police Station 12, the incident occurred at around 7:00 p.m. along C.M. Recto Avenue corner Mel Lopez Boulevard in Barangay 20.

The suspect, identified only as alias “Artemio,” is single, unemployed, and a resident of Parola Compound in Tondo.

Authorities said the suspect allegedly posed as a passenger bound for Divisoria. While the vehicle was in transit, the driver noticed the suspect appearing to open the pocket of his jacket, where his wallet was kept.

Moments later, the driver reportedly caught the suspect with his hand already inside the pocket, attempting to take the wallet.

The driver immediately sought assistance from police officers conducting a visibility patrol in the area, leading to the suspect’s prompt arrest.

The suspect is now facing charges for violation of Article 308 (Theft) under the Revised Penal Code of the Philippines and is set to be presented before the Manila Prosecutor’s Office for inquest proceedings.