NBI captures suspect in missing accountant case

MANILA, Philippines — A suspect has been arrested in Pateros for allegedly kidnapping accountant Irene Melican, according to the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).

Melican, 35, reportedly dated the suspect she met on a dating application in September. She remains missing.

Authorities recovered Melican’s white sport utility vehicle from the suspect.

During the inquest following his arrest, the suspect attempted to attack a public attorney using a fork but was subdued by NBI agents.

The suspect is facing charges of kidnapping, serious illegal detention, car theft and violation of the Access Devices Act.

NBI-National Capital Region chief Rommel Vallejo said Melican’s friend attempted to contact her on Facebook, but a child answered the call before the suspect grabbed the phone.

On June 13, closed-circuit television footage showed the suspect with two women purchasing three cell phones in San Juan using Melican’s credit card and identification card but with a different ID photo.

The suspect allegedly withdrew P3.5 million from the joint bank account of the victim and her mother.

Melican was last seen on June 3 when the suspect called her on the phone asking for help, claiming he had been in an accident.