NBI ordered to probe harassment of Veloso family
JUSTICE Secretary Leila de Lima on Tuesday ordered the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to look into the alleged harassment of the family of Mary Jane Veloso, the Filipina sentenced to death in Indonesia.
“We have to look into that particular [incident]–sinu-sino ’yon? Alamin na muna kung sinu-sino yung lalaki na yon na bumisita sa kanila at ano yung pakay. So, if there is something na fishy or sinister about that visit, then iimbestigahan yan,” de Lima told reporters.
A burly-looking man, according to the Veloso family, visited their hometown in Cabanatuan City.
“So, hindi naman mawawala yung takot. Talagang natatakot ang mga family ni Veloso. They [Veloso family] sought for help. I think the NBI also sent a team last night to check into that incident,” she said.
Migrante International on Monday said three unidentified men arrived in motorcycles at the house of Celia Veloso, mother of Mary Jane.
On the other hand, Darling, Mary Jane’s sister said the men took pictures of their house.
Article continues after this advertisementDarling said they asked the men why are they looking for them, she said the men told them they wanted to help because they think Mary Jane’s case is moving at a slow pace.
Article continues after this advertisementWhen the men left, Darling said they noticed that their dog disappeared. They reported the incident to the barangay (village) hall and recorded it in the police blotter. She said they then sought police protection.
Then, on May 7, Darling said a mysterious caller was asking for the whereabouts of her sister, Maritess.
“Binaba na niya iyong telepono noong kinukulit ko kung sino siya,” she said.
Darling said they are worried for Maritess’ safety who was traveling to Manila to attend the May 8 preliminary investigation at the Department of Justice (DOJ).
The Velosos said the motorcycle-riding men frequented their community.
“Kapag tinuturo naman nila (neighbors) hindi naman tumutuloy. Ang tatay ni Mary Jane ay hindi na nakakatulog. Nagbabantay na lang sa aming bahay gabi-gabi. Nag-aalala rin po ako para sa aking mga apo,” Celia said. AC
