AN IRISHMAN found dead in Colombia is believed to have been 'strangled to death with bubble wrap taped around his head'.
Joe Moore, an Irish father-of-three, was found dead in a river in the Caldas region of Colombia on May 2 this year, however Colombian police struggled to identify him due to a lack of documentation.
Mr Moore was originally from Ballyfermot in Dublin, but had been living in Spain for a number of years.
According to The Irish Sun, Mr Moore was held in the morgue until he was identified by a tattoo on his arm with the word Ireland, along with a large tattoo of Christ on the cross on his back.
Local witnesses reported seeing a “strange car” in the area at around 11pm on May 1, the night before Mr Moore's body was found, and said it appeared the body had been thrown from the bridge.
The corpse had been bound by the hands and feet, and an autopsy showed the cause of death was asphyxiation.
Mr Moore's body was returned to Ireland earlier this month, and was laid to rest on July 17.
Writing in tribute to the Irishman, friends said: "A true gent and friend. I will miss our chats and our endless cups of tea. Rest in peace Joe. Sincere condolences to your children and family."
"Rest in peace Joe. A true gentleman always held in the highest regard by all your real friends another ballyfermot legend gone, there will always be a place for you Joe in our hearts, God bless you and may your soul rest in peace," said another.
"My dear friend, you were dearly loved and will be sadly missed by many. You leave behind sadness but take love in abundance," added another friend.
The Irish Department of Foreign Affairs has said they are aware of the case and are providing consular assistance to Mr Moore's family.
Headline edited at 9.30pm on August 2 to read Colombia
