Davao Demolition Crew Arrested for Theft During Court-Ordered Operation
In a significant law enforcement action, eight members of a demolition crew were apprehended by Davao City police on Friday, March 6, 2026. The arrests occurred after authorities allegedly observed the individuals taking personal items during a demolition operation at Lastima Compound in Matina Crossing, Barangay 74-A. This incident underscores the complexities and challenges surrounding court-mandated demolitions in the area.
Police Intervention and Evidence Recovery
Personnel from Police Station 3-Talomo (PS3-Talomo) made the arrests following a security deployment for a Writ of Possession and Special Order of Demolition. The operation began at approximately 7:30 a.m., with police providing oversight to ensure a lawful process. At around 11 a.m., officers noticed several crew members removing items from structures within the demolition zone.
Upon inspection, police recovered various objects, including copper wires, jackets, and clothing, which were found in the suspects' bags. These items were seized as potential evidence. The identities of the eight individuals are currently withheld pending the preparation and filing of theft charges with the Prosecutor's Office.
In a statement, PMAJ Genesis B. Oriel, PS3-Talomo station commander, emphasized the importance of adhering to legal standards during demolition activities. "We are here to ensure that the implementation of the demolition is conducted in a fair, orderly, and lawful manner," Oriel said, adding that any violations would be addressed accordingly.
Background on Matina Crossing Demolitions
This incident unfolded amid ongoing demolition efforts in Matina Crossing and nearby areas, where over 500 housing units at Arroyo Compound have been targeted for court-ordered removal. Residents have been relocating belongings and, in some cases, dismantling their own structures as clearing operations proceed.
The enforcement wave follows the Supreme Court's reinstatement in May 2025 of a February 5, 2015, writ of possession favoring the Lui family. The family stated that original tenants' titles were canceled in 2006 after the land was reclassified from agricultural to commercial. Authorities maintain that these actions are intended to enforce existing court rulings, with security forces present to ensure orderly and peaceful operations.
Resident Concerns and Allegations of Harassment
Despite the demolitions, several residents on Guarisa Street, Guadalupe Village, Matina Crossing, remained in their homes as of Thursday, March 5, 2026. They have resisted leaving due to concerns about inadequate notice and unclear information regarding relocation sites.
In an interview, Erick, a 49-year-old long-time resident, alleged that demolition workers harassed residents, causing trauma among children and disrupting daily life. He expressed willingness to vacate if provided proper notice and guaranteed relocation. "That would have been fine if they had given us a proper notice—we wouldn't have been so shocked," he said, highlighting the emotional toll on families.
While some households were allowed to self-demolish and salvage materials, others chose to stay amidst rubble to protect belongings and assert perceived land rights.
Relief Efforts and Future Support
In response to the disruption, the Department of Social Welfare and Development – Davao Region (DSWD-Davao) distributed 140 family food packs to affected residents on Thursday, March 5, 2026. DSWD-Davao Regional Director Engr. Rhuelo D. Aradanas led the distribution at Barangay 74-A Hall.
Aradanas clarified that the current relief is for residents with valid claim stubs, marking only the first phase of assistance. Additional support is scheduled in the coming days to address the ongoing needs of displaced individuals.
