Ex-seaman risks facing abuse raps

CEBU, Philippines - A former seaman was arrested by Mambaling police after the mother of a four-year-old boy complained him of molesting her son yesterday morning in Sitio Huyong-huyong, Barangay Mambaling, Cebu City.

Samuel Odom Yasaña, 44, is said to be a live-in partner of the child’s grandmother.

In an interview, Senior Inspector Gerald Suquib, Mambaling police chief, said the incident was reported to the Mobile Patrol Group.

“Naalarma na sa Mobile Patrol ganiha, gipaadtoan na nato og police. Nahulog na man ni og apohan sa biktima ang suspect (The Mobile Group was alarmed so police officers responded. It turns out that the victim is the suspect’s grandchild),” he said.

The mother of the child alleged that the suspect molested his son early morning yesterday.

“Nisulti man kuno ning bata, gipadala na nato for medical examination naghulat pa ta sa result (The child allegedly told her mother about the alleged act. He was sent for medical examination and we’re still waiting for the result),” Suquib added.

In a separate interview, Police Officer 3 Diosdado Andales, desk officer, said around 10:30 yesterday morning, a police officer arrested the suspect.

He added that the police blotter reflects that the suspect was arrested for rape charges.

Initial reports said the suspect was reportedly drunk during the incident and upon coming home, he then allegedly molested the child.

When police officers arrested the suspect, he was said to be under the influence of alcohol although it was not immediately available whether the suspect had been subjected to a liquor test.

He is currently detained at Mambaling detention cell while waiting for the result of the medical examination.

Meanwhile, the Women’s and Children’s Protection Desk is preparing appropriate charges against the suspect.  — (FREEMAN)