MPD bags 2 fugitives for gang killing, rape

MANILA, Philippines - A 49-year-old man accused of killing a member of a rival gang and a 64-year-old man who allegedly raped his adopted daughter were arrested by the Manila Police District (MPD) Wednesday.

Chief Inspector Mario Magno, who heads the MPD Warrant and Subpoena Section, identified the arrested fugitives as Jojo Lising, 49, and Arturo Legaspi Sr., 64.

Court records show that Lising, together with Bongbong Tanan and Dennis Calma, allegedly attacked and stabbed Jennifer Atendido and Graciano Atendido Jr., who were both members of the True Brown Style fraternity gang. The suspects are reportedly members of a rival gang, the Tau Gamma Phi.

The attack occurred on April 21, 1998. Jennifer died while Graciano survived. The court recommended no bail for the three suspects, who went into hiding since the commission of the crime. After 12 years hiding in Tarlac province, Lising went back to his family in Tondo, Manila.

Legaspi also went into hiding for 14 years after he learned that his adopted daughter had filed rape charges against him. The rape reportedly occurred on Dec. 28, 1996. No bail was also recommended for Legaspi.

Senior Police Officer 2 Virgo Villareal, dubbed the MPD’s “Criminal Hunter,” effected the arrest of the two fugitives together with PO2 Arnel Lozano.

Villareal has earned his moniker after arresting at least 120 wanted persons in his 16 years as a Manila policeman.