Brothers Released After Questioning in Francisca Cadenas Disappearance Case
Hornachos, Spain – Two brothers from Hornachos, Badajoz, were released from Civil Guard custody on Tuesday after being questioned as investigados (persons under investigation) in connection with the disappearance of their neighbor, Francisca Cadenas, nearly nine years ago. The pair appeared before the Central Operational Unit (UCO) on Monday afternoon.
Their lawyer, José Duarte, stated that both men invoked their right to remain silent until provided with “essential elements” of the investigation that would allow them to mount a defense. Duarte indicated their willingness to cooperate further once the secrecy of the investigation is lifted.
“They were already free and remain that way, there is no precautionary measure,” Duarte told reporters, confirming that his clients are still under investigation and would consent to a search of their home if requested by UCO investigators. “If the agents understand that this afternoon they have to approach the home, the doors will be open,” he stressed. “We are going to collaborate. Any element that the UCO believes should be examined will be examined, of course.”
Investigation Remains Under Secrecy
Duarte explained that the Civil Guard provided them with “investigations, testimonials, that is, statements of people,” which he deemed “generic data” insufficient for a proper defense. His clients opted to provide statements only after the investigation’s secrecy is lifted.
Duarte highlighted the brothers’ release as an indication that the UCO does not currently possess “a sufficiently powerful indication to understand that they could not be released.” He asserted, “Have no doubt that if this group, so specialized in this type of investigation, had found an indication powerful enough to understand that they could not be released, the two would have been detained… Have no doubt. They have been released and are going to freedom given that there really is no such powerful indication.”
Potential Defamation Lawsuits
The lawyer also indicated they are considering legal action against individuals expressing opinions about the investigated men on social media and locally. “Since they have been considered investigated the town has suffered a convulsion, social networks too and these are people who have to be treated as presumed innocent. And we have to ensure that this is indeed the case,” Duarte stated. He added that if the investigation ultimately yields no evidence against them, those who have publicly condemned them “have time to rectify.”
Francisca Cadenas disappeared in May 2017, at the age of 59, after being dropped off near her home. The case has remained unsolved for nearly nine years, and the recent questioning of the two neighbors represents a significant development in the investigation.