A SUSPECT in the four-year-old case of the missing sabungeros, or cockfight enthusiasts, has come forward, claiming the 34 victims are dead and offering to cooperate with authorities and the families in their search for justice.
In a report by GMA News’ “24 Oras,” the suspect, identified only as “Totoy,” spoke directly to relatives of the missing individuals, expressing his willingness to assist in their pursuit of justice. While initially hesitant to definitively state whether the sabungeros were still alive, Totoy ultimately indicated that their survival was unlikely. His statement prompted strong emotional reactions from the families present.
Totoy provided chilling details in a subsequent interview with GMA Integrated News, alleging that the victims were murdered using tie wires and their bodies disposed of in Taal Lake.
He further claimed that the number of victims could be significantly higher than the 34 reported missing sabungeros, potentially reaching close to 100, including individuals unrelated to the cockfighting scene. He alleged that some victims were killed after being caught cheating at the cockpit and handed over to another, unnamed group. His testimony also implicated the involvement of drug lords in the disposal of bodies in Taal Lake.
Authorities are expected to receive details from Totoy’s affidavit, including the name of the alleged mastermind behind the killings.
This development marks a significant turning point in the long-unsolved case, potentially providing crucial leads for investigators. The information provided by Totoy, if corroborated, could lead to arrests and prosecutions, bringing some measure of closure to the families who have been searching for answers for four years.
The investigation is ongoing, and further details are expected to emerge as authorities follow up on Totoy’s claims.
