PNP: No proof Que’s son masterminded kidnap-slay

MANILA, Philippines — There is no concrete evidence that would suggest that the son of steel magnate Anson Que is the brains behind his kidnap-slay, the Philippine National Police announced yesterday.

The PNP made the clarification after a news report in a television network identified Que’s son, Rongxian Gou, also known as Alvin Que, as the one who allegedly ordered the businessman’s murder, based on an affidavit of David Tan Liao, one of the principal suspects.

Liao and his Filipino cohorts – Richardo Austria and Reymart Catequista – are in police custody.

The younger Que was among the six personalities who were recommended by the police Anti-Kidnapping Group for preliminary investigation.

PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo said that apart from Liao’s extrajudicial confession, he did not present other evidence to prove that the younger Que was involved in the murder of the businessman and his driver, Armanie Pabillo.

Fajardo said police are treating Que’s son as one of the respondents and “not as a mastermind.”

The younger Que is cooperating in the probe. He submitted his cell phone to the PNP for forensic examination to clear his name.

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said authorities are still looking into “other theories” in the kidnap-slay of Que.

Meanwhile, a P5-million reward was put up for any information that would lead to the arrest of another suspect, Gong Wenli.

The PNP said Gong was the one who negotiated with Que’s family, even using the businessman’s cell phone. Gong’s alleged parents were apprehended in Boracay on April 25. – Daphne Galvez