Authorities suspicious over kidnapping

AUTHORITIES were suspicious over the kidnapping incident of a public school official in Barangay Hinigdaan in El Salvador City, Misamis Oriental last Monday afternoon.

Senior Superintendent Rolando Hinanay, Misamis Oriental Provincial Police director, said the kidnapping of 43-year-old Erwin Respito, acting principal of Hinigdaan Nationalized High School, was part of the “plan,” based on clues and information they gathered.

“May mga inconsistencies sa mga statements at sa incident dahil accordingly, isinakay daw sa motorsiklo. Bakit sasakay pa samantalang may dalang van ang mga suspects?” Hinanay said.

Police initial investigation showed that Respito and his supposed abductors met an accident along the way, thus personal belongings were left behind, including the registration papers of the motorcycle.

It was found out that the motorcycle used in the alleged abduction was owned by Joseph Bayoyo of Barangay San Miguel in Baungon Bukidnon, who is reportedly a relative of Respito.

Reports said Bayoyo sold his motorcycle to Respito for P20,000.

“Isa-isa nating inimbestigahan ang detalye at mga incidents para malinawan kung ano talaga ang nangyari,” he added.

Last Monday afternoon, it was reported that Respito was abducted by four armed men.

The suspects reportedly dragged and forced him into a red van.

But a witness said there was no commotion, contrary to earlier claims that Respito was dragged and forced into the van.

However, it was found out that the van used in the supposed abduction was seen in one of the photos of Respito on his Facebook.