Two suspects linked to a cable cut-for-ransom scheme in North Cotabato recently fell in police hands after they were caught in an entrapment operation set via a collaboration between Globe’s security team and police.  

North Cotabato police arrested Jonie Magtawil Dacutan, a member of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), and his cousin Jimmy Apolinsia Dacutan. The suspects are linked to multiple incidents of cutting Globe’s underground fiber optic cables (FOCs) in Barangay Manarapan, Carmen town, disrupting services for numerous customers.

"Cable cut is not just a problem for Globe but a serious crime that affects entire communities by depriving them of vital telecommunications services," said Joel Agustin, SVP and Head of Network Planning and Engineering at Globe. 

"We are grateful for the support of the North Cotabato Police Provincial Office in apprehending these suspects.  We will continue to work with law enforcers as we remain committed to protecting our network assets through enhanced security measures and active stakeholder collaboration," he added.   

The incidents began on December 12, 2023, when Globe's underground FOC in Manarapan was severed by unidentified suspects. The perpetrators left a note demanding a Php250,000 ransom, or else they would cut more lines by December 20. When they did not get paid, the suspects struck again on the promised date.

A third cable cut happened on March 23, 2024, where the suspects left a contact number. This led Globe's Security Team to engage with the suspects via text and calls. The perpetrators demanded a ransom of Php300,000, or else they would cut another underground FOC in Carmen.