Philippine Police Team Deployed to Cambodia to Hunt Fugitive Gambling Tycoon Atong Ang
In a significant development, the Philippine government has officially sent a team of police officers to Cambodia to pursue the elusive gambling tycoon Atong Ang, as confirmed by Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla. This move comes amid an intense manhunt for Ang, who is wanted in connection with serious kidnapping charges linked to the disappearance of 34 cockfighters, a case that has gripped the nation.
International Manhunt Intensifies
Secretary Remulla disclosed that authorities are exploring all possibilities, including the likelihood that Ang may have fled to Cambodia or Thailand to evade arrest. Despite the Bureau of Immigration's assertion that there is no record of Ang leaving the country, the DILG chief emphasized that the police are actively collaborating with Cambodian authorities to pinpoint his potential whereabouts. This cross-border cooperation marks a critical step in the investigation, highlighting the government's determination to bring Ang to justice.
Financial Resources and Investigation Efforts
Remulla acknowledged that no concrete intelligence reports have been received yet regarding Ang's exact location. However, he expressed confidence that Ang possesses substantial financial resources, estimated at around ₱10 billion, which could be used to facilitate his escape and avoid law enforcement. This vast wealth complicates the search, as it may enable Ang to access safe havens and logistical support abroad.
Over the past two weeks, Philippine police have conducted raids on at least 18 locations across various regions of the country in an effort to track down Ang, but these operations have so far proven unsuccessful. Additionally, the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group in the National Capital Region (CIDG-NCR) has received 40 tips from informants, with most pointing to areas in Metro Manila, Central Luzon, CALABARZON, and the Bicol Region. Not all of these leads have been verified, underscoring the challenges in the ongoing investigation.
Legal Proceedings and Co-Accused
Earlier, courts in Laguna and Batangas issued warrants of arrest against Atong Ang, although his legal team has argued that these actions are premature. Meanwhile, the government has taken custody of all 21 co-accused individuals associated with Ang, ensuring they face legal proceedings as the hunt for the primary suspect continues.
This case underscores the complexities of high-profile fugitive pursuits, involving international coordination, financial scrutiny, and extensive police work to resolve a matter of national concern.
