The Philippine National Police (PNP) confirmed that the bodies found in Rodriguez, Rizal yesterday were those of the missing Filipino-Chinese businessman and his driver, who had been reported missing since March 29.
In an ambush interview at Camp Crame on Thursday, PNP spokesperson PBGen. Jean Fajardo said that the victims found—with their bodies bound with nylon and faces covered with duct tape—were confirmed to be the abducted steel magnate and his driver.
Moreover, the victims were reportedly covered in bruises and showed signs of strangulation.
The initial police report stated that the victim’s family received a message from the kidnappers a day after the abduction, demanding a multi-million dollar ransom.
Fajardo stated that a Special Investigation Task Group has been formed, to be headed by Chief of the Directorial Staff PLt. Gen. Edgar Okubo, with Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Chief PMGen. Nicolas Torre III serving as the lead investigator in the case.
Authorities are also looking into the possibility that the group behind the kidnapping incident is connected to illegal POGO operations, as well as the involvement of a group of Chinese nationals reportedly using Filipinos as their personnel.
Before the bodies were found in Rizal, the Highway Patrol Group discovered a black Lexus van in Barangay Bahay Toro, Quezon City, which was believed to have been used by the victim before he went missing.
According to witnesses, two hooded men abandoned the vehicle on the same day the businessman was reportedly kidnapped.
Meanwhile, PBGen. Elmer Ragay, who was recently promoted, has been removed from his position as director of the Anti-Kidnapping Group (AKG).
PNP Public Information Chief PCol. Randulf Tuaño confirmed to DZRH that the relief of Ragay takes effect today, April 10. He will be replaced by PCol. David Poklay, Deputy Chief for Operations of the CIDG.
"Sabi ni Chief PNP, he is not satisfied with the performance, that’s why he was relived and replaced today. Nag-assume na po sa office si PCol. David Poklay, ang previous Deputy Director for Operation ng CIDG," said Fajardo.
Ragay was previously relieved from his position after a kidnapping incident involving a foreign student in Taguig in February.
However, the order was later revoked due to the prohibition on the transfer of officials during the election period without clearance from the Commission on Elections (COMELEC).
