BJMP exec nabbed for stealing mug

MANILA, Philippines - An official of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) was arrested for allegedly stealing a mug worth P245 at a popular coffee shop in Manila Friday afternoon.

Senior Inspector Manuel Rafanan Jr., deputy warden of the Makati City jail and resident of Barangay Northside, Makati, was on his way out of the coffee shop at past 2 p.m. when security guard Rommel Pajara accused him of stealing a mug.

Pajara claimed that Rafanan placed the mug in a paper bag.

Rafanan denied taking anything from the coffee shop.

He refused to allow Pajara and his supervisor Adamson Sienes to inspect his bag, saying he would only open it in front of police officers.

Rafanan said the incident caught the attention of students and customers of the coffee shop, causing him embarrassment. 

The security guards brought Rafanan to the Manila Police District general assignment and investigation section.

A complaint for qualified theft was filed against him.

Probers said the case lodged against Rafanan was weak, considering that “they did not recover the alleged stolen item.” 

Rafanan was released yesterday afternoon for further investigation. He vowed to file counter charges to clear his name.