A Quezon City policeman nearly lost his motorcycle to thieves after parking it before dawn Saturday in Cubao for foot patrol — only to return and discover two men already astride it, gamely trying to start the engine.

The policeman promptly arrested the suspect for their trouble.

P/Lt. Col. Ramon Solas, commander of QCPD Station 7 (Cubao), identified the suspects as alias “Rito,” 23, and alias “Rafael,” 24, both residents of Barangay San Isidro, Montalban, Rizal.

According to Solas, the incident unfolded at the corner of Aurora Boulevard and Stanford Street in Barangay Socorro.

At around 3:15 a.m., P/Cpl. Chikino and P/Cpl. Passilan parked a yellow Yamaha Mio 125 and proceeded with foot patrol duties, presumably expecting to find the motorcycle exactly where they left it.

They returned at about 4:10 a.m. to a surprise: the two suspects were already on the motorcycle, attempting to make a clean getaway that never quite got off the ground.

A closer inspection showed the ignition switch had been forcibly destroyed using a flat screwdriver, suggesting the suspects were determined, if not particularly lucky.

A search yielded more eyebrow-raising finds. Inside Rito’s sling bag was an improvised firearm, or pen gun, loaded with one live round of ammunition.

Recovered from Rafael were a hand grenade, a pair of shorts, a hoodie jacket, and the flat screwdriver allegedly used to tamper with the motorcycle.

Records checks showed that Rafael has prior criminal cases involving violations of Republic Act 9165 and theft. Rito, on the other hand, had no previous criminal record.

Both suspects will be charged with violations of Republic Act 10883, or the New Anti-Carnapping Act of 2016.

In addition, Rito will face charges under Republic Act 10591, or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Act, while Rafael will be charged with violating Republic Act 9516 for unlawful possession of an explosive or incendiary device.

“This case demonstrates the vigilance and quick response of our officers on duty. Criminals who attempt to steal or use weapons on our streets, especially this coming holiday season, will be promptly apprehended,” QCPD Acting Director P/Col. Randy Glenn Silvio said.