In-depth probe ordered on deaths of suspected drug lord Odicta, wife 

Western Visayas Police regional director Chief Supt. Jose Gentiles ordered Monday an in-depth investigation on the deaths of suspected drug lord Melvin Odicta and his wife, Meriam.

In a press statement, Gentiles said the Police Office Region 6 condemns the killing of the Odictas in Caticlan, Malay,Aklan and sympathized with their family.

“I directed [the] provincial director of [the] Aklan Provincial Police Office to conduct in-depth investigation to identify the suspect/s and effect their immediate arrest and to file the necessary case in court,” he said.

He said a Special Investigation Task Group has been organized by the Aklan Police Office to handle the case.

He added that Region 6 police values the life of every individual and respects human rights and due process as he appeal to anyone who has knowledge of the incident to come forward.

“We appeal to the public who has direct knowledge of the incident to come out to the open and help in our investigation so that justice will prevail,” he said.

Also on Monday, Interior Secretary Mike Sueno reiterated that the Odictas told him they were receiving death threats. The Odictas met with Sueno on Thursday. 

“Nabanggit nila iyan nung nag-appear sila sa atin last week na may threats nga silang natatanggap. Kaya naman we passed them to [the] CIDG for investigation,” he said in reply to queries from reporters.

Asked if the Odictas mentioned big personalities during their meeting, Sueno said they do not need to disclose it now while the investigation is ongoing.

“Lahat ng nag-appear sa ating opisina we are considering all of their statements important. Maging mga susuko man iyan o maglilinis ng pangalan lahat sila ay welcome sa DILG sa anumang assistance,” he said. — Amita Legapsi/RSJ, GMA News