Teen found dead in swamp

A police officer points to the area of a swamp in Barangay Minapasuk, Calatrava, Negros Occidental where the decomposing body of a 17-year-old boy was found Monday. (Photo courtesy of Calatrava Municipal Police Station)

By Glazyl Y. Masculino

BACOLOD City – Police are probing the death of a 17-year-old boy whose decomposing body was found in a swamp in Barangay Minapasuk, Calatrava, Negros Occidental on Jan 2, 2023, two days after he was reported missing on Dec. 30, 2022.

Police Major Lumyaen Lidawan, Calatrava town police chief, said the family of the victim, whose name was withheld, believes there was foul play in his death.

In fact, the victim’s family has requested an autopsy, however, it will take a few days for the remains to be examined.

Thus, Lidawan said the family just decided to bury the remains of the victim. But, he assured that they will continue to probe the incident while waiting for a witness to surface.

“Hindi malaman if may foul play, wala kasing witness,” the police chief added.

Lidawan said the victim was last seen alive on the night of Dec. 30 after he had a drinking session with a group. Since then, he was reported missing by his family.

“Lasing daw itong biktima nung last time na nakita siya,” he added.

Lidawan said the victim had no record with the police or the barangay.

He said the area, where the victim was found, was a secluded part of the village.