Robbers have destroyed two tombs at a remote cemetery in Kibawe, Bukidnon and took the kneecap or “tuway-tuway” from the remains of a person buried there.

The “tuway-tuway” is reportedly being turned into amulets.

Residents found the feet of the deceased protruding from the tomb, prompting them to report the matter to the police.

“Actually, ang ilang pagtuo niini is ang maong buto sa maong tuhod kay himuon nila kini og agimat. Ginagamit daw kuno kana as amigat,” Police Regional Office-Northern Mindanao (PRO-10) Spokesperson, Major Joann Navarro, said.

Authorities said it is possible that the suspects planned their operation properly because no one noticed the incident.

Police have launched an investigation to identify the perpetrators.

“Karon, padayun ang investigation nga ginahimo sa atong kapulisan as to those individuals nga mihimo sa insidente,” Navarro added.

Police are also urging those who have knowledge about the incident to come forward and cooperate with authorities.

“Atoa siguro tan-awon nga ang pagbungkag pa lang sa nitso, pwede kato mahulog nga malicious mischief, ug kaning pag-disrespect sa pag-desecrate sa usa ka patayng lawas, pwede kana sya mahulog sa Civil Code nato sa 309 as civil damage,” Navarro said.