DNA test result on deaths of Koreans expected next week

CEBU, Philippines - The result of the examination of the deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) samples of the two Korean nationals found charred inside a burning Hyundai Sta. Fe vehicle in Danao City last month may be released next week.

Sr. Supt. Noel Gillamac, head of the Special Investigation Task Group, said the facial composite of the suspects will be released only when the result of the DNA test from the Philippine National Police Crime Laboratory in Camp Crame will be available.

“Maybe next week naa na kay it took time man pud gud (Maybe it will be available next week because it also takes time),” Gillamac said in an interview.

“Ang result sa DNA mao na lang gyud among gipaabot aron ma-confirm namo ang mga ebidensiya nga among nakuha (We are only waiting for the DNA result so we can confirm the evidence that we have gathered),” Gillamac said.

He said he has directed the SITG to collate more evidence and find more witnesses to make sure they will have a strong case against the suspects. So far, the SITG has two witnesses.

“Gusto nako lig-on among kaso nga i-file and not because dunay gidalian (I want to file a case because it is strong, not because we need to file it quick),” Gillamac said.

Last week, charges for carnapping and kidnapping were filed against Warren Sia, a car dealer who was linked to the case.

The case against him was based on the sworn affidavits of two witnesses, as well as on circumstantial evidence that he was the last person talking with the victims before the two went missing last November 12.

Recently, the SITG implemented a search warrant for carnapping and kidnapping at the warehouse owned by Sia in Barangay Pakigne, Minglanilla where they found and seized a Mitsubishi Lancer owned by one of the witnesses.

The vehicle where the charred bodies were found was also bought from one of the witnesses. Its registration, however, has not been transferred because it has not been paid for fully.

The witnesses are reportedly engaged in dealing cars while the two victims reportedly acted as middlemen.  (FREEMAN)