Massacre suspect no-show at NBI

The Manila policeman tagged as the alleged mastermind in the murder of five people in Novaliches, Quezon City last month, was a no-show at the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) yesterday.

According to an NBI insider, Senior Inspector Alexander Navarette refused to submit himself to the custody of the bureau despite orders to do so by Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Leandro Mendoza and Western Police District acting director Superintendent Nicolas Pasinos.

"His lawyers told us that he (Navarette) will only face the NBI after the inquest of the case. By doing so, he violated the orders of his superiors at the PNP. He (Navarette) should be charged administratively," one NBI insider said.

The multiple murder case against Navarette and his six cohorts, was scheduled for inquest yesterday afternoon in the Justice Department with only Navarette’s lawyers present. Submitted for inquest yesterday were suspects Erid Salonga, 32; Clarito "Butch" Sy, 33; and his brother Armando, 36.

According to NBI insiders, as Navarette was not placed under arrest, he could go into hiding. This is was the reason the NBI also asked the Justice Department to issue a hold departure order on him.

"As he was not placed under arrest and detention, he is free to go abroad and hide," said one NBI insider. – Mike Frialde