The filing of a case before the court and the subsequent issuance of an arrest warrant against Bella Ruby Santos and her British boyfriend Ian Charles Griffiths are the biggest thing to happen in the quest for justice over the abduction and killing of six-year-old Ellah Joy Pique.
This is not, however, to inspire public opinion that Santos and Griffiths are already guilty as charged based on this recent development. It is up to the court to decide the case, whether there is enough proof to convict the suspects.
But the prosecution still has to produce convincing evidence against Santos and Griffiths . Yes it has gained the upper hand. But it’s still a long legal battle before the case is resolved.
Of course, Santos and Griffiths are still innocence until proven otherwise. They could still walk with their heads high. They know they can always put up a good legal fight to prove their innocence.
Although she vehemently denied the allegation, Santos is nowhere to be found. She reportedly went into hiding even before the prosecutor’s office can elevate the case to the court.
There was an unconfirmed report that she had already left the country to avoid the arresting authorities. If this is true, her move only contradicts her earlier statement that she would still be around to face the case to prove her innocence.
But her first move towards proving her innocence should be to come forward and face the case in court. She should listen to her family, which has been calling for her to surrender.
Remaining in hiding only creates an impression that Santos has something to do with Pique’s death. Therefore she should not let her absence be the source of public judgment finding her guilty of the crime.
While she can still defend herself with the help of her lawyers, she must take the courage to surrender to the authorities. Her counsels can always check her to ensure her rights are not violated while in police custody.
Whether she chooses to remain in hiding or have the bravery to surrender, the ball is now in Santos ’ court. But the best advice for her is to surface before things go from bad to worse.