Digital facial composite of suspect released.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has released the digital facial composite of the suspect that left the improvised explosive device (IED) near the United States Embassy last Monday.
In a press briefing at the Quezon City Police District (QCPD) headquarters in Camp Karingal yesterday, PNP chief Director-General Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa said the suspect is described to be around 44-45 years old, 5’5” tall, weighing about 60-65 kilograms, has medium build and fair complexion.
Dela Rosa said the suspect wore a white polo shirt, black pants and a pair of leather shoes.
The PNP chief said a street vendor around 2 a.m. saw the suspect alight from a white taxi, in front of the trash bin along Roxas Boulevard where he left the bomb.
Contrary to reports, Dela Rosa said the suspect drove the taxi himself.
Earlier, Dela Rosa pointed to the Maute Group as one of the culprits behind the terror attempt.
“The theory stays,” he said. “We don’t know if he’s a terrorist who rented a taxi or just a taxi driver hired by the terrorist to deliver the bomb.”
Dela Rosa also did not discount the possibility that the suspect may be one of the group’s 300 members or followers who was ordered to leave the explosive as a diversion to the military operations in Lanao del Sur.
“Pwede rin na mangyari na itong Maute Group or yung kanilang sympathizer…dito (Manila) or matagal nang nakatago dito, tawagan na lang nila ang symphatizer dito na ilabas ang bomba to create diversionary move,” he said.
Despite the bomb threat, Dela Rosa assured the security and safety of the public. (VANNE TERRAZOLA)
