‘Mangkukulam’ killed by nephew

A man with a reputation for being a “mangkukulam” or witch doctor was stabbed dead by his nephew in Marikina City Sunday.

Jaime Montuerto, 63, a resident of Barangay Malanday, suffered 30 stab wounds in the body.

The suspect, Michael Abenir, 28, allegedly believes Montuerto killed his father by means of witchcraft in Catbalogan, Samar a year ago.

Marikina City police chief Superintendent Sotero Ramos Jr. ordered a massive manhunt for Abenir, who escaped after the incident.

Ramos said Montuerto arrived recently from Catbalogan, Samar to have a vacation with his family in Barangay Malanday.

When news of Montuerto’s arrival reached Abenir, also a resident of the barangay, the suspect – who was under the influence of liquor – decided to pay him a visit at around 9:35 p.m. Sunday.

Witnesses said Abenir even greeted his uncle with a handshake and invited him out of the house for a chat. Once outside, Abenir took a bladed weapon and repeatedly lunged at the victim.

Senior Inspector Jose Salazar, head of the investigation division of the local police, said Abenir’s father died a natural death but Abenir suspected that Montuerto, a reputed witch doctor, killed his father over a misunderstanding over a piece of land.

As Abenir escaped, neighbors rushed Montuerto to the Amang Rodriguez Medical Center but the victim was declared dead on arrival by attending physicians.

Ramos said murder charges are being readied against Abenir.  – Non Alquitran