P10-million bounty dangled for Atong Ang’s arrest

National

THE Department of Justice (DOJ) announced that a P10-million bounty awaits those who can provide information that would lead to the arrest of Charlie “Atong” Ang.

The offering of the cash reward came after a Laguna court issued arrest warrants against Ang for his alleged involvement in the abduction and murder of dozens of cockfighting enthusiasts, or sabungeros.

Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla announced the reward and identified Ang as the nation’s most wanted individual.

“Any information leading to the conclusive arrest of Atong Ang will merit a P10-million reward, no questions asked,” he said during a news briefing in Quezon City, as reported by Philstar.

Remulla explained that the bounty is necessary because Ang is accused of orchestrating the systematic killing of more than 100 sabungeros over several years. He urged Ang to surrender, warning that becoming a fugitive would bring harsher treatment.

Acting Philippine National Police chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez approved the revocation of six firearms licenses registered under Ang’s name, which must be surrendered to the PNP Firearms and Explosives Office or face additional charges.

Remulla described Ang as “armed and dangerous,” citing his hot-tempered nature, over 20 armed bodyguards, and past incidents in which he allegedly assaulted a lawmaker at a cockpit arena.

He added that Ang had employed active and retired NBI agents as security escorts and allegedly used corrupt police officers in the killings.

The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) said it believes Ang remains in the country and is prepared to request an Interpol red notice if he flees.

CIDG director Maj. Gen. Robert Alexander Morico II said authorities have coordinated with the Bureau of Immigration for a hold departure order and are monitoring

Ang’s properties in Batangas, the Visayas, and Mindanao.

Some properties may have underground facilities that could help him evade arrest. Police attempts to serve warrants at multiple locations, including Mandaluyong City, Lipa City, Sta. Cruz, Laguna, and Pasig City, have so far been unsuccessful.

Remulla said four retired police generals are also under investigation for alleged links to Ang, noting they were often seen with him at cockfighting events and warning that anyone assisting him could face criminal charges and pension forfeiture.

The DOJ expressed confidence that Ang has not left the country.

Acting Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida said immigration records show no indication he departed, and prosecutors believe the cases against him and 17 co-accused are strong enough for conviction.

Arrest warrants have been issued for non-bailable offenses of kidnapping with homicide and kidnapping with serious illegal detention, while all co-accused have been apprehended.

Investigations were revived after whistleblower Julie “Don-Don” Patidongan testified that Ang masterminded the killings, claiming victims were strangled for allegedly cheating in cockfights and dumped in Taal Lake.(MyTVCebu)

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