Camp Katuu in Airai, where the Civic Action Team (CAT) Palau is based, has reopened following the identification of the young man suspected of committing multiple thefts in the Camp on the night of December 1.
A warrant was issued for Mr. Werson Takada’s arrest on December 9, after security camera footage identified him as the likely perpetrator of the robberies.
The 18-year-old young man was arrested and is being held by the Bureau of Public Safety (BPS), pending $1,000 cash bail and $2,000 surety bond. He is facing one charge of Burglary in the Second Degree and four charges of Theft in the Third Degree, in addition to charges of Criminal Trespass, Unauthorized Entry into a Motor Vehicle, Unauthorized Control of a Propelled Vehicle, and Criminal Attempt. According to BPS Director Aloys Alonz, all items stolen from the Camp by Mr. Takada have been recovered and returned to the CAT.
Mr. Takada allegedly has a history of breaking into houses and attempting theft in Airai. The young man reportedly had several pending cases for attempted burglary already, prior to his December 9th arrest.
The Camp resumed usual open hours on Monday, December 7, from 8am in the morning to 8pm at night every day. However, the CAT has implemented a check-in process to maintain better control of the Camp, which requires visitors to provide identification upon entry.
Camp Katuu is open to the public for services such as vehicle maintenance, medical examinations, and use of the gym. The CAT of the US military generally provides engineering support to construction projects and community outreach support.
Camp Katuu reopens following burglar’s identification
