Arson suspect to face 3 charges

CEBU, Philippines — A self-confessed drug user who set his house on fire Sunday afternoon in Sitio Panagdait, Barangay Kasambagan, Cebu City will face at least three criminal charges.

Police Major Dindo Alaras, chief of the Mabolo Police Station, said they will file criminal complaints for homicide and violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act against Guillermo Canabe, Jr.

The Bureau of Fire Protection is also filing a separate complaint for arson.

“The BFP will file the case of arson and the PNP will file a case of homicide,” Alaras said.

Canabe admitted starting the fire to get even with his neighbors who allegedly accused him of being a police informer. At least 25 houses were razed and a man with mental disorder was killed during the incident. Canabe claimed that anger pushed him into burning his house to get even with his neighbors.

He also admitted to using illegal drugs. In fact, he was once arrested for illegal drugs but was released. Alaras said they will file the criminal charges based on Canabe’s own admission.

“Known gyud sya nga adik,” Alaras added.

Alaras expressed his gratitude for the cooperation of the community that resulted in the immediate arrest of the suspect.

Meanwhile, a criminal complaint for parricide is set to be filed by the Carcar City Police Station against Romnick Melecio, 39, who allegedly killed his wife, Dailyn, before setting their house ablaze in Sitio San Roque, Barangay Liburon last Sunday.

Police Staff Sergeant Raymond Amanse, homicide investigator, said they are just waiting for the family of the victim to prepare the affidavits. Amanse said the couple’s five-month-old child is now under the custody of the Department of Social Welfare and Development.

Amanse said they need witnesses to support the complaint because there was admission from the suspect. Initial investigation showed that Melecio may have killed his wife and set their house on fire to cover up his crime. (FREEMAN)