PNP Launches Probe into Police Officers Allegedly Aiding Fugitive Tycoon
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has initiated a formal investigation into disturbing reports that some active and retired police officers may be providing assistance to fugitive businessman and gaming tycoon Charlie "Atong" Ang, helping him elude law enforcement authorities. This development comes as the manhunt for Ang intensifies following multiple arrest warrants issued against him.
Administrative and Criminal Sanctions Under Study
During a recent press conference, the PNP Public Information Office (PIO) revealed that acting PNP chief Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has directed the Directorate for Investigation and Detective Management (DIDM) to examine potential administrative and criminal sanctions against individuals suspected of aiding the fugitive. The investigation involves comprehensive profiling of identified individuals through the Directorate for Personnel and Records Management (DPRM), with the Legal Service collaborating to determine appropriate penalties.
Colonel Jean Fajardo, speaking for the PNP, emphasized the seriousness of the allegations: "Based on the information we obtained, there may be some police officers who are possibly providing assistance. The DIDM took the profiles of the individuals from our DPRM and is studying them, together with our Legal Service, to determine the appropriate administrative and possible criminal sanctions against the identified individuals."
Nationwide Manhunt for Wanted Businessman
The PNP-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) and dedicated police teams have been conducting extensive search operations for Ang, who faces charges of kidnapping with homicide and serious illegal detention related to the disappearance of several cockfight enthusiasts (sabungeros). Despite serving warrants at multiple addresses linked to Ang in Metro Manila, Laguna, and Lipa City, Batangas, authorities have been unable to locate him. Even attempts to serve warrants at his Zambales properties through the National Bureau of Investigation have proven unsuccessful.
Law enforcement officials maintain that Ang remains within Philippine territory, with no records indicating he has left the country despite some claims to the contrary. The PNP has issued a stern warning to the public, friends, associates, and security personnel against providing any form of assistance or shelter to the fugitive, reminding everyone that aiding a wanted individual constitutes a criminal offense.
DILG Places Ang on Most Wanted List with P10 Million Reward
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has officially placed Charlie "Atong" Ang on its most wanted list, offering a substantial P10 million reward for information leading to his arrest. DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla acknowledged the challenges in tracking Ang due to his considerable resources, extensive connections, and high mobility, but stressed that law enforcement operations continue relentlessly.
All of Ang's co-accused in the missing sabungeros case have either been arrested or are currently in police custody, making Ang the sole remaining fugitive in this high-profile investigation. The PNP remains committed to bringing him to justice and ensuring that any law enforcement personnel found complicit in his evasion face appropriate legal consequences.
