PNP preps for possible warrants in missing sabungeros case

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has instructed all units to prepare for the possible issuance of arrest warrants against those accused in connection with the disappearance of dozens sabungeros between 2021 and 2022.

PNP acting chief P/Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said Thursday the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) and local police units have been directed to ensure readiness once the Department of Justice (DoJ) releases its resolution on the case.

“The PNP has prepared security and monitoring measures to ensure peace and order once the resolution is released,” Nartatez said in a statement.

“The PNP is always ready to enforce the law once the proper judicial processes are completed. Once an arrest warrant is issued, the PNP will immediately act in coordination with the concerned units and the courts to ensure its proper and lawful implementation,” he added.

The DoJ previously announced that the murder and kidnapping complaint filed against businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang and several others has been submitted for resolution.

Senior Assistant State Prosecutor Charlie Guhit confirmed that the panel of prosecutors completed the preliminary investigation after complainants declined to file a reply to the respondents’ counter-affidavits.

The complaint includes charges of kidnapping with serious illegal detention, multiple murder, and other related offenses.

A total of 57 respondents submitted counter-affidavits, including Ang, actress Gretchen Barretto, and retired Police Gen. Jonnel Estomo, all of whom have denied the allegations against them.

The DoJ panel will now determine whether the case should be filed in court or dismissed for lack of sufficient evidence.

To recall, the case stemmed from the disappearance of 34 sabungeros who went missing in separate incidents from 2021 to 2022. Police investigations suggest the victims were abducted over alleged match-fixing or cheating in cockfighting matches.

Whistleblower and co-accused Julie “Dondon” Patidongan earlier claimed the missing men were killed and buried in Taal Lake. The DoJ reported that around 887 human bones have been recovered from the lake as of 21 October, though forensic verification is still underway. 

Ang, on the other hand, has vehemently denied the accusations, asserting that the evidence against him lacks credibility.