Ex-policeman slain in Caretta

Cebu - A former policeman was found dead outside an abandoned house in sitio Mahayahay, barangay Caretta around 7 pm. Monday.'

The victim was identified as Telesforo Herbas Hortelano, 53, who was formerly detailed at the Carmen Police Station in Bohol.

Cebu City Police Office director Patrocinio Comendador Jr. said Hortelano had been absence without official leave since November last year.

On the spot investigation showed that Hortelano was struck on the head with a rock, which caused his instantaneous death. He suffered cuts on the forehead and on the cheek.

Police also noticed strands of hair on the rock which was found some five feet away from the victim. The rock, weighing at least 10 kilos, was believed to be what the killer used on Hortelano.

Police also recovered Hortelano’s black wallet with two P50 bills, identification cards, pay slips, and pertinent papers.

The assailant remains at large.

Police Inspector Rex Campos said some residents near the crime scene reportedly saw Hortelano walking in the area mid afternoon that day.

When he came back, he sat on the pavement in front of the abandoned house and fell asleep. He was already dead when he was found.

Comendador said the killing appears pre-meditated.

When he was still active in service, Hortelano reportedly had several complaints against him and had been charged with several administrative cases. – Niña Chrismae Sumacot and Bentley Naire Luyong (THE FREEMAN)