Alleged child-rape suspect arrested in Visayas after hiding for 19 years

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After 19 years in hiding, a suspect in an alleged child rape case was located and arrested by authorities in the Visayas.

In an exclusive 24 Oras report by Emil Sumangil on Tuesday, the suspect was identified by the alias “Billy.” His location was provided by a police informant.

“Nakita nila sa social media, may bago nang trabaho… Iba na 'yung pamumuhay niya, akala niya hindi na siya matutunton kahit nag-iba na 'yung hitsura niya,” said P/Lieutenant Cleo Nobleza, spokesperson for the Eastern Police District Mobile Force Battalion.

(They saw on social media that he had a new job... He was living a new life and thought he could no longer be traced, even though his appearance had changed.)

According to authorities, the suspect was 16 years old when he committed the alleged crime, while the victim was seven years old.

GMA News tracked down the victim, who is now a 26-year-old criminology graduate.

“‘Huwag daw ako maingay, bibigyan daw ako ng candy,” the victim said, recalling the incident.

(He told me not to make a noise and promised to give me candy.)

She emphasized that she is determined to press charges against the suspect and ensure he goes to jail.

“Gusto ko na ipakulong po siya. Kahit anong mangyari, wala pong hinihinging kapalit na pera,” the victim said.

(I really want him imprisoned. No matter what happens, I am not asking for any monetary settlement.)

The suspect did not issue a statement.

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—Lyjah Tiffany Bonzo/RF, GMA News