Primary murder suspect arrested

By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

Following interrogations conducted yesterday by Silay City police, a mother admitted to having a role in the double murder of her live-in partner and their child in the city’s Barangay Kapitan Ramon last Tuesday.

Silay City police chief, Police Superintendent Noel Polines, said the mother, identified as Rogelia Landao, exhibited several inconsistencies in her statements, which aroused suspicions.

However, while she admitted to being involved in the crime, Landao said it was her nephew, Arnel Aguilar, a resident of Barangay E. Lopez in Silay City, who directly carried out the murder.

Following the confession, Polines ordered a manhunt against Aguilar, resulting in his arrest.

The city police chief said, based on Landao’s confession, the incident occurred after the father, identified as 63-year-old Antonio Padua, was confronted by Aguilar and Landao over financial issues last Monday evening.

An altercation erupted and Aguilar stabbed Padua several times, killing him on the spot.

Landao reportedly retreated to the corner near their house, while Aguilar dragged Padua’s remains inside. He then saw seven-year-old April Rean inside one of the rooms, fearing the daughter may speak to police, he also stabbed her to death.

Aguilar proceeded to pour gasoline on both victims and set them on fire before fleeing.

Polines said Aguilar faces two counts of murder, while Landao faces conspiracy and parricide charges.

Both suspects are detained at the Silay City Police Station./DGB, WDJ