Appearing for arraignment following a lengthy probe, the accused, though slapped with a single count of rape, could end up facing more should the other 30 cases lead to further charges. Investigating Officer (IO) Tiboni Lucas stated that Loeto might be the suspect who has been on their radar for the 30 cases of rape. “The matter is still under investigation so there is a likelihood that these charges might change and increase,” he said. Lucas further pleaded with the court that the accused be further remanded in custody as the investigations are at an infant stage and as such releasing the accused might put the alleged victim(s) in danger.
Lucas revealed to the court that keeping Loeto behind bars would guarantee that he couldn't harm the alleged victim as she was able to identify him. He indicated that Loeto had threatened to kill the victim by strangulation. On this ground, as one of the two reasons he requested the accused be further remanded, Lucas asked the court to have the alleged victim moved to a place of safety. The second reason why Lucas wants Loeto kept off the streets is that soon after his arrest it became evident that the accused might be the guy they have been searching for. “After we arrested him, we realised that there are so many rape cases against a suspect matching his description.
