For several times, Cebu Fuente Police Station has become the refuge of adults who were victims of small boys and girls.
Yes, you can be become victims of children who at night time make the vicinity of Fuente Osmena circle down to Mango Avenue (Gen. Maxilom Avenue) as their playing grounds.
These kids are not just playing but also looking for their potential victims. Most victims are foreign nationals and unaccompanied women.
Kiddy Modus in Mango
In the November 12, 2010 editorial of Freeman Cebu, the ways of these children were described.
These boys and girls, aged anywhere from seven to 10, operate by ganging up and swarming around their victims, pretending to ask for alms. They grab the victims’ arms to immobilize and stall them. Then amid all the commotion, one will pick the victims’s pockets or bags.
These children should not be underestimated. They are as dangerous as the jeepney pickpocketers and main street holdupper in Cebu.
The same editorial described how these children counter attack!
In the few occasions that victims did try to grab or hit the kids, they would find themselves in far worse trouble because the kids would then launch a counterattack by stoning the victims with whatever stone or projectile they can lay their hands on.
Lately, we got a relief because news stories would say that victims got back their stolen wallet. Apparently, our Police know so well where to find these children once a victim reported.
Of course, because they are children, no case were filed. The next evening, these children would attack again.
In a society where we are very protective to our children, let us also give attention this uniquely Cebu kiddy modus. Even adults need protection.
Third Wave 