NBI releases condo slay ‘suspect’

National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Reynaldo Wycoco has released from its custody Bebs Reyes, a suspect in the rape-slay of bank employee Candice Castro, saying there was no more reason to hold him.

Wycoco said Reyes has been turned over to his parents, Bienvenido and Concepcion Reyes, last Wednesday afternoon.

Technically, authorities have no legal basis to further hold him in the absence of a warrant of arrest .

"There is no more reason to hold him. There is a preliminary investigation and his rights are being protected. Therefore, we have to release him," Wycoco said.

Earlier, the Castro family’s lawyer, Lorna Kapunan, questioned the NBI’s authority to keep him in custody for the rape-slay committed last May 12 inside a condominium in Malate, Manila. She wants the suspect turned over to the Western Police District (WPD), the investigating law enforcement agency.

Manila City Assistant Prosecutor Elseray Faith Noro is still evaluating evidence presented by both prosecution and defense.

Another suspect, Philippe Marcelo, whose fingerprints and footprints were found inside Castro’s condo unit, is being held by the Western Police District.

Marcelo had tagged Reyes as the mastermind in the killing, but he has failed to substantiate his accusation with proof.

Castro, 23, was found murdered inside her condominium unit at the Vellagio Tower on Leon Guinto street, Malate, Manila. She suffered 24 stab wounds.

Reyes’ lawyer, Orlando Dizon, said his client does not enjoy "protection" from the NBI since he decided to surface last June 2.

"My client voluntarily placed himself under the custody of the NBI for fear of his life. He has been receiving death threats," Dizon noted.

Reyes also extended condolences to Castro’s parents, insisting he had nothing to do with the gruesome killing.