Deaf-mute nabbed over rape, murder of girl

NORTH COTABATO, Philippines --- Policemen arrested Wednesday a deaf-mute for the brutal rape-slay of a six-year-old girl early this week in Matalam town in the province.

The suspect, Marcelino Ordoñez, 26, was arrested with the help of barangay officials, according to the Matalam municipal police.

Chief Inspector Elias Colonia of the Matalam police told reporters witnesses have confirmed having seen Ordoñez dragged the victim near a river in Barangay Santa Maria, where she was found dead next day.

Colonia said the lifeless body of the six-year-old child bore six stab wounds.

A municipal councilor in Matalam, Rolando Nonesa, helped the police locate the suspect’s whereabouts.

Colonia said a corresponding criminal case will be filed against Ordoñez on Friday.