The tragic case of Audrey Fang, a Singaporean woman found murdered in Spain, continues to unfold as her family seeks justice. On 10 April 2024, Ms Fang was discovered with over 30 stab wounds in Abanilla, prompting international concern and media attention.
Family’s Request for Extended Detention
According to reports, Ms Fang’s family has urged a Spanish court to prolong the detention of suspected perpetrator Mitchell Ong for an additional two years. Ong, who was arrested shortly after the discovery of Ms Fang’s body, is currently facing serious charges, with his pre-trial detention nearing its two-year limit.
- Ong was apprehended on 16 April 2024.
- Lawyer Manuel Martinez represents the victim’s family and has outlined concerns regarding Ong’s potential flight risk.
- Spanish law allows for up to two years of pre-trial detention, extendable under exceptional circumstances.
Legal Proceedings and Allegations
In court documents, Martinez noted that Ong has both the financial means and no ties to Spain, suggesting he poses a significant risk of evading justice if released. Ong’s defence lawyer, María Jesus Ruiz de Castaneda, is contesting the validity of the case, aiming to have it dismissed altogether.
The preliminary autopsy revealed that Ms Fang had sustained fatal knife wounds and head trauma. CCTV footage captured Ong leaving his hotel on the night leading up to Ms Fang’s murder clad in a hoodie, raising further eyebrows among investigators.
Connection Between Fang and Ong
Details have emerged indicating that Ms Fang and Ong, aged 43, were connected through a social dating network. While Ms Fang was reportedly interested in him, friends expressed concerns that Ong was primarily focused on selling financial assets to her. Notably, Ong was named the sole beneficiary of Ms Fang’s Central Provident Fund savings, amounting to approximately $498,000.
Authorities confirmed that mobile phone records place both individuals together in Abanilla on the day of the crime, solidifying the case against Ong. If convicted of murder, he could face a prison sentence ranging from fifteen to twenty-five years.
Continued Media Attention and Public Response
The case highlights the challenges faced by families seeking justice in complex international legal systems. As this narrative unfolds, it has attracted a significant amount of media coverage and public interest in Singapore and beyond, shining a light on the intricacies of legal proceedings in foreign jurisdictions.