Police in Nueva Vizcaya have stepped up their search in drainage canals and other possible entry points for criminals following an attempted pawnshop robbery in Bambang, Nueva Vizcaya.

Called Project Scuba, the operation aims to check underground areas where thieves might dig tunnels to break into establishments.

Authorities found no equipment linked to tunneling activities, aside from the reported robbery attempt.

However, a resident nearby noticed the suspects breaking through the pawnshop’s flooring and identified a lookout outside.

Police later linked the same suspect to a separate bank robbery in Santiago City.

One suspect has been charged while police continue to investigate and identify others involved.

The group is believed to be part of the Termite Gang, known for operating in Region 2.

"Itong Oplan SCUBA, isinagawa namin sa Nueva Vizcaya. Dati kasi iniilawan lang ‘yan [ng mga pulis], pero ngayon talagang pinasok nila ang mga kanal at mga lugar [na maaaring daanan ng mga kawatan] sa kani-kanilang mga areas," Police Major Nova Lyn Aggasid, spokesperson of the Nueva Vizcaya Police Provincial Office, said.