InterAksyon.com
The online news portal of TV5
BUTUAN CITY, Philippines -- Police in the Caraga region said they have yet to confirm reports that the former mayor of Carrascal town in Surigao del Sur has been kidnapped.
Superintendent Martin Gamba, information officer of the Caraga police office, said doubts remain about the reported abduction of Victor Lim Tan, who was reportedly seized on May 21 by eight men in Sitio Catupgas, Barangay Zone 3 in Lanuza.
“We cannot confirm … the rumors that the kidnappers are asking P70 million. The provincial crisis management committee meet yesterday and plans are underway to find the truth and the possible actions to be taken to find mayor Tan,” said Gamba.
The official pointed out that Tan’s family has requested police to let them solve the problem themselves.
“Even though the family has requested not to be bothered by the issue, we have assured them that we are here in case they need our support. Our troops in the area are ready to respond to any situation if needed by Tan’s family,” he said.
Carrascal police chief Senior Inspector Ray Sorreda also confirmed in a phone interview that Tan’s family is not cooperating with their investigation.
“We tried to get the family’s side on the issue but they have refused to cooperate and talk to us or even allow an audience with us at their residence. But even with the situation, we are still continuously trying to communicate with the victim’s family,” Sorreda said.
He added that the family was concerned about the safety of the former mayor and feared if they allowed police involvement, they would be putting him at risk.
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