CAUAYAN CITY, Isabela – The body of a 28-year-old junk collector with 40 stab wounds and a slashed throat was found on a vacant lot in Barangay Cabaruan here Sunday, July 10, after he was kidnapped Saturday, July 9.
The family of the victim, Marco Salgado, of Barangay District 1 here, said he left behind a live-in partner and two children, the youngest of whom is 10-months-old.
Police investigation showed that Salgado was on his way home driving a motorcycle with sidecar used in his business when a Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) blocked his path at around 12 noon Saturday on Villarta St., Barangay District 1.
Three unidentified men forced the victim at gunpoint to board the car. His motorcycle was left behind.
Hours later, Marco’s mother went on radio and urged his abductors to set him free.
On Sunday morning, Marco’s body was found dumped on a vacant lot in Barangay Cabaruan. The victim bore 40 stab wounds. His throat was slashed and his face sustained bruises.
Shortly after learning of his brother’s grim fate from the police, Mark was interviewed by a local radio station and appealed for justice and asked witnesses to come forward and inform the police.
Marco’s family said they are shocked and have no idea what prompted the brutal killing. They said the victim was a good man, a good provider, and his routine was just “work and home.” He was also not involved in any dispute in their area, they added.
Police have launched a manhunt operation against Marco’s kidnappers and still determining the motive of the crime.