Mob mauls snatcher to death

CEBU, Philippines – A man who allegedly tried to snatch a woman’s cell phone was mauled to death by bystanders along Gorordo Ave., barangay Camputhaw past 5 p.m. yesterday.

The fatality was later identified as Sherwin Lanurias, 22, a former bus dispatcher and a native of barangay Bitoon, Daanbantayan town.

Investigation showed that Lanurias stole the Nokia N6500 cell phone of Thelma Bernales who was walking along the road that time. Bernales shouted for help and more than ten bystanders chased after the suspect and mauled him when they got hold of him.

The suspect escaped them but the group of boys continued chasing him and mauled him again.

Lanurias, who is now at the San Fernando Funeral Homes, died of hemorrhage after the bystanders smashed his head against the pavement.

The body of the fatality was identified by his mother, Vivian Lanurias, also from Daanbantayan, and by Bernales.

Cebu City Police Office Homicide Section chief Mario Monilar said they are still waiting for the fatality’s family to decide whether or not to file charges against the assailants of Lanurias.

But while Monilar said there were witnesses to the incident, whether or not they are willing to testify against the bystanders is still a question. —Niña G. Sumacot/BRP (THE FREEMAN)