MANILA, Philippines — The police formed a special body to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death of a missing Japanese national and her Filipina mother, whose remains were found buried near the residence of the latter’s sister in Tayabas City last March 14.
According to Police Regional Office (PRO) 4-A, the Special Investigation Task Group (SITG) “Motegi” was created to investigate the killing of 26-year-old Mai Motegi and her 54-year-old mother, Lorry Litada.
Based on initial reports, Motegi and Litada’s remains was found in the backyard of the residence of Litada’s sister, Ligaya Oliva Pajulas inBella Vita Subdivision in Barangay Isabang.
“The SITG “Motegi” composed of seasoned investigators and experts from different PRO4A units will diligently work towards unraveling the truth behind this unfortunate incident,” Calabarzon regional police chief Brig. Gen. Paul Kenneth Lucas said in a statement on Sunday.
Lucas likewise instructed the team to conduct in-depth profiling of the suspects, expedite the SOCO (Scene of Crime Operation) examination results, and perform other tasks to solve the case promptly.
“Anyone with relevant information regarding the case is encouraged to come forward and assist us in our efforts to bring justice to the victims and their families,” he said.
Another sister of Litada reported her and her daughter’s disappearance last February.
Tayabas City police chief Lieutenant Colonel Bonna Obmerga tagged Pejulas and her husband as persons of interest in the case.