By Glazyl Y. Masculino
BACOLOD CITY – Mayor Alfredo “Albee” Benitez urged the perpetrators in the brutal killing of a Grade 11 student here to surrender immediately to the authorities, warning that the full force of the law will be used until justice is served.
Through his spokesperson, lawyer Caesar Distrito, Benitez assured the suspects that their rights would be respected and they would be afforded all legal remedies according to the law and the constitution.
Benitez expressed his sympathy and condolences to the parents of 20-year-old Nicus Balagosa, who was shot to death in front of his parents at their residence in Barangay Granada on June 2.
“I cannot imagine the pain and suffering of Nicus’ parents, having their only child shot and killed in their presence and in their own home,” Benitez said.
The mayor directed Police Colonel Noel Aliño, director of Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO), to ensure the safety of Balagosa’s family, as they fear for their lives. He also instructed them to build a strong case against the perpetrators to ensure justice for the victim.
“No one has the right to take another’s life or to take the law into their own hands. Ours is a government of laws, and we should seek justice through our institutions, not through personal means,” the mayor added.
Police earlier said they have four persons of interest in the murder case, including the father of a 16-year-old girl who was a friend of Balagosa. Authorities did not disclose his identity to protect the alleged rape victim.
Police Captain Portia Nillosan, head of Police Station 5, said the teenage girl’s father falsely accused Balagosa of being one of those who allegedly raped his daughter.
Balagosa, the girl, and two other friends aged 17 and 19 attended a friend’s birthday party where the alleged rape occurred.
However, Nillosan said their investigation revealed Balagosa had left the party before the incident happened.
Nillosan said they are investigating Balagosa’s two other friends, who were also at the party, in relation to the incident.
Meanwhile, Benitez urged the suspects in the alleged rape to surrender to the authorities.
