Missing warrant bugs sabungero probe

The Department of Justice (DoJ) is awaiting the issuance of an arrest warrant by the San Pablo, Laguna Regional Trial Court against business tycoon Charlie “Atong” Ang in connection with the kidnapping of the so-called “missing sabungeros.”

Prosecutor General Richard Anthony Fadullon said the DoJ is closely monitoring developments, noting that two other regional trial courts, one in Lipa City, Batangas, and another in Sta. Cruz, Laguna, have already issued arrest warrants against Ang and his co-accused for a total of 25 counts of kidnapping.

“As of now, we still have no information from the San Pablo court. We are continuing to follow it up, although I understand that there was already an arraignment held last Friday,” Fadullon said.

Despite the pending warrant from San Pablo, Fadullon stressed that the warrants issued by the two other courts are sufficient to enforce Ang’s arrest, noting that the charges are non-bailable.

Mystery of pending warrants

“We are still trying to find out why the other court has not yet issued the warrant. Nonetheless, the warrants already issued are non-bailable,” he said.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) earlier said it has intensified its efforts to locate and arrest Ang, warning his friends, business associates, and security providers against giving him shelter or any form of assistance.

PNP’s tracker and intelligence units have expanded monitoring operations, including known backdoor exits, to prevent Ang from fleeing the country.

Police said they anticipate Ang may attempt to evade arrest by leveraging his connections and financial resources, prompting the PNP to widen its search and prepare coordination with the International Criminal Police Organization should he leave the Philippines.

As part of enforcement measures, the PNP also approved the revocation of Ang’s firearm permits following the issuance of arrest warrants.

Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla earlier identified Ang as the country’s most wanted fugitive, with a P10-million reward offered for information leading to his arrest.

The PNP further cautioned the public against providing false or misleading information regarding Ang’s whereabouts, warning that individuals who obstruct law enforcement operations may face criminal liability.

Security agencies were likewise reminded that providing protection, including bodyguard or escort services, could result in administrative and criminal sanctions.