Police arrest buddy of Aves

CEBU, Philippines – Members of the Mambaling police had arrested the alleged right hand of controversial Alpha Kappa Rho hitman Aristotle Aves whom they chanced upon while roving in barangay Duljo-Fatima later afternoon Wednesday.

Santos “Sonny” dela Cruz whom police said is one of the most wanted fraternity members in Cebu City was arrested by virtue of a warrant issued by Regional Trial Court Judge Eric Menchavez for a case of frustrated murder filed against Dela Cruz in 2006.

Sr. Insp. Pablo Cabildo, chief of the Mambaling police, said they were roving the interior portion of barangay Duljo-Fatima due to persistent reports of shootings in the area when they spotted Dela Cruz.

Dela Cruz allegedly ran away but was eventually cornered.

Dela Cruz was involved in shooting incidents triggered by fraternity wars between AKHRO and rival group Tau Gamma several years ago.

“Kana si Dela Cruz, usa na sa mga tirador sa AKHRO niadto nga kauban ni Aves diin kusog pa kayo ang frat war pipila na katuig ang nakalabay nga mugawas g’yud ang pangalan niini uban kang Aves labi na sa drive-by-shooting,” said Chief Insp. George Ylanan, chief of Investigation and Detective Management Branch

In an interview, Dela Cruz said he was “shocked” by his arrest, saying further that he did not have any idea that a warrant was issued against him.

He, nevertheless, admitted being jailed for 11 months in 2006 for homicide and illegal possession of firearms. Both cases were dismissed by the court just this February.

Dela Cruz also admitted frequenting Aves’ house prior to the latter’s arrest last year but denied having been involved in the crimes Aves allegedly committed. — Niña G. Sumacot and Guam Logroño of Banat News/JMO (THE FREEMAN)