PRO-8 intensifies probe into kidnap-slay of ex-Abuyog vice mayor, son

TACLOBAN CITY – The Police Regional Office in Eastern Visayas (PRO-8) has intensified its investigation into the kidnapping and killing of former Abuyog, Leyte vice mayor James Bohol and his son, Carlo James, whose bodies were recovered in a ravine in Silago, Southern Leyte.

In a statement Wednesday, PRO-8 said investigators are exhausting all investigative and operational efforts to identify and arrest those responsible for the crime.

READ: DSWD: Tacloban school shooter, 15, acted with discernment

Police said they are conducting case build-up operations, gathering and processing evidence, interviewing witnesses, pursuing all possible leads, and coordinating with other law enforcement units to expedite the investigation.

“The Philippine National Police remains committed to seeking justice and holding those responsible accountable to the full extent of the law,” the regional police office said.

PRO-8 on June 30 confirmed that the two men earlier reported missing in Mayorga, Leyte were positively identified as the former Abuyog vice mayor and his son.

READ: Ex-vice mayor, son confirmed dead; cops intensify hunt for killers

The confirmation ended days of uncertainty over the fate of the two, who were reportedly abducted by unidentified armed men in Mayorga on June 27.

The regional police office also said personnel from the Scene of the Crime Operatives had processed the crime scene as part of the ongoing investigation.

Meanwhile, the local government of Abuyog condemned the killings.

“Such profound lawlessness has no place in our society, as it directly violates the peace, order, and security that we uphold within our municipality,” Abuyog Mayor Lemuel Gin Traya said in a statement issued late Tuesday.

“We extend our deepest and most sincere condolences to the immediate family, and to everyone who grieves this catastrophic loss. Our collective prayers, thoughts, and unwavering support are with the bereaved family during this unimaginably painful time,” he added.

PRO-8 also appealed to the public to refrain from spreading unverified information that could hamper the investigation.

Authorities have yet to release additional details as the investigation continues. (PNA)

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