A 19-year-old college student was found gagged and bound at a vacant lot in Barangay Patalon, Zamboanga City after she was allegedly abducted by three men.
Residents found the student face down with her hands and feet tied and her face covered with packaging tape.
She was wearing her school uniform when found.
The barangay council rushed her to the hospital for treatment.
According to the Zamboanga City Police Office (ZCPO), the victim had to be admitted to the hospital due to trauma.
Quoting the student’s account of the alleged incident, ZCPO said the student was abducted past midday on Monday, April 15, 2024, by three unidentified men while she was walking on the road in Barangay San Roque.
The suspects allegedly covered her mouth and forced her into a van.
As investigation into the alleged kidnapping continues, authorities reminded the public to refrain from spreading unconfirmed information.
The student’s family has yet to release a statement, as of this writing.
Mayor John Dalipe assured that the student and her family will get immediate access to vital resources of the city.
The mayor has ordered the police and the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWD) to provide the necessary intervention.
“From counseling services to legal support, every avenue of assistance was pledged to aid in their recovery and pursuit of justice. Rest assured that all support will be provided at every step of their journey to healing,” Dalipe said.
