A WITNESS in the kidnap-slay of Bien Unido, Bohol Mayor Gisela Bendong-Boniel alleged that he was offered money by the camp of Bohol Provincial Board Member Niño Rey Boniel to stay away from the case.
Niñolito Cajes Avenido, 31, reported to Bien Unido Police station last Tuesday afternoon that a certain Melchor Carusos tried to persuade him to be silent in exchange for cash and job opportunities.
Avenido, who served as the security watchman in Double Barrier Reef Dive Camp and Dive Site in Bien Unido, had said he saw Niño and his men arrive in the resort about 12:30 a.m. on June 7.
Carusos, who was allegedly sent by Niño’s relative, first approached Avenido around 10 a.m. on July 13.
Two days later, Carusos came back and repeated his offer. He also asked Avenido’s family to go on vacation outside Bohol for two days, so the latter can attend the preliminary hearing at the Bohol Provincial Prosecutor’s Office set last Tuesday, July 18.
Avenido became afraid after Carusos allegedly asked for the location of his bedroom and his other activities.
At 7 p.m. Monday, July 17, Carusos persuaded him not to attend the hearing, but he left Avenido’s house after he saw an arriving police car.
The police will press charges against Carusos.
Lawyer Inocencio de la Cerna Jr., one of Niño’s counsels, said they will face any complaint that will be filed by the police.
“Unless and until we verify the report and it is under oath by the claimant security officer, it is hearsay. It can even be the work of the other party,” he said. (KAL)