Girl, 7, raped, killed in Malabon

MANILA, Philippines - A drunk pedicab driver was arrested after he allegedly raped and killed a seven-year-old girl at the Tugatog public cemetery in Malabon City on Friday night.

Jay-R Payawal, 30, was apprehended by members of the police community precinct 4 following the discovery of the victim’s body, probers said.

Two witnesses told authorities they saw Payawal grabbing the girl while she was walking in front of the cemetery along Dr. Lascano street.

After a few minutes, residents in the area found the girl lifeless.

Police said the victim’s mouth was gagged with her panty.

Two watchmen of Barangay Tugatog arrested Payawal in a follow-up operation.

Payawal admitted that he was with the girl. But he denied killing her.

Police said the suspect had surrendered to authorities during the implementation of Oplan Tokhang in Malabon.

Probers said the suspect could be high on drugs when he committed the crime.

Payawal is being held at the Malabon police detention cell on charges of rape with homicide.