KOROR, Palau – The burned remains found in a Babeldaob area have been identified as Peng Li, a 37-year-old Chinese tour guide, police announced Wednesday. Li, who had lived in Palau for six years, recently returned from a trip to China.
Peng Li, 37, was discovered on December 21st in the Ewall area, nestled between the villages of Melekeok and Ngchesar. Authorities confirmed Li, who had resided in Palau for six years, worked for R&C Tours as a tour guide.
Acting Police Director Lt. John Gabriel revealed Li had traveled to China on November 21st and returned shortly before his demise. At a December 27th press conference, Gabriel announced four individuals – one woman and three men – are being investigated as persons of interest and barred from leaving the country.
“We know their whereabouts and are monitoring them closely,” Gabriel stated. “We have identified a potential crime scene and await specialized equipment to further examine it within the next two days.”
However, Minister of Justice Uduch Senior emphasized the suspects’ presumption of innocence until proven otherwise, reiterating they are only under surveillance and restricted from travel until the investigation concludes.
The discovery stemmed from a local hunter’s report of a fire burning in Ewall on December 21st. Upon arrival, he witnessed a black van with occupants leaving the area and captured a license plate photo before alerting authorities. Responding police found Li’s body amidst the charred debris, unrecognizable due to the fire’s intensity.
“Identification took time as no missing person reports were initially filed,” Gabriel explained. “However, later reports prompted further investigation.”
No official motive has been established, but speculation centers on potential financial issues like investment problems, misappropriation, or debt collection. The investigation faces additional complications due to Palau’s lack of diplomatic relations with People’s Republic of China, limiting investigative reach beyond Palau’s territory.
Two previous cases involving missing Chinese nationals remain unsolved due to similar obstacles in communication and collaboration with Chinese authorities.
To aid in determining the cause of death, Palau has requested a pathologist’s assistance from Taiwan through the Republic of China-Taiwan’s Embassy in Palau. “The autopsy will hopefully shed light on whether the victim died before the fire or while alive, and provide any other relevant details,” Gabriel said.
The investigation into Li’s death remains ongoing, with authorities determined to uncover the truth and ensure justice is served.