5 perpetrators of Korean鈥檚 abduction, slay 11 years ago given life terms
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MANILA, Philippines — Five persons accused in the kidnapping for ransom and homicide of a Korean woman 11 years ago were found guilty by a regional trial court, according to the Department of Justice (DOJ).
The DOJ made the statement based on a 21-page decision by the Manila Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 24 promulgated last February 18.
Judge Benedict D. Medina found Ronel Mongado y Seda, Rowel Mangado y Seda, Alex Buenaobra, Jimmy Manlapaz y Gabatin and Sergio Natad y Balog “guilty beyond reasonable doubt.”
Their conviction included the penalty of reclusion perpetua without eligibility of parole.
They are also required to pay the heirs of the Korean woman P100,000 each in moral damages, civil indemnity and exemplary damages.
Article continues after this advertisementThe DOJ said the case began on March 3, 2014 when Ji Won Lee was forcibly abducted by all the accused to extort ransom from her family.
Article continues after this advertisementWhile a total of P17,000 was given to the perpetrators, Lee was still killed during her detention.
Furthermore, a certain Jullie-Ann Traboco y Tongga was found guilty as an accessory to the crime.
She was meted the penalty ranging from five to eight years of imprisonment.
She was also ordered to pay the victim’s heirs P12,5000 each for civil indemnity, moral damages and exemplary damages.
Another co-accused identified only as alias “Paks” remains unknown.
It also noted the absence of supporting evidence on the reported death of accused Rene Natad during an encounter.
The RTC said an alias arrest warrant will be issued and their cases will be archived until there is a voluntary surrender or apprehension.
The press release on the court resolution was handed out on March 1 (Saturday).
