Expanded Probe Reveals More Individuals Linked to Missing Sabungeros Case
MANILA, Philippines — Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III revealed that the investigation into the missing sabungeros case has identified more individuals beyond the initial 15 police officers involved. Authorities are closely monitoring these new personalities as the probe unfolds.
During a press briefing, Gen. Torre emphasized that the inquiry will extend past the 15 PNP personnel first implicated. “There are other personalities who have been identified as the investigation goes on. We have information on their whereabouts, and we are monitoring them. If necessary, we will place them under surveillance while waiting for the issuance of an arrest warrant so that once the warrant is issued, we can immediately apprehend them,” he stated.
Current Status of Police Officers Linked to Case
Gen. Torre confirmed that the 15 police officers tied to the case are currently under restrictive custody at Camp Crame in Quezon City. Among them, 11 remain active, one is retired, and three were dismissed from service even before their alleged involvement surfaced. The highest-ranking officer holds the rank of lieutenant colonel.
Most of these officers were assigned to support units, while others were stationed in regional offices and area police commands, sources said.
Whistleblower’s Claims and Ongoing Search Efforts
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla previously disclosed the status of these officers last week, shedding light on the ongoing investigation. Meanwhile, last month, a whistleblower identified as alias “Totoy,” also known as Julie “Dondon” Patidongan, claimed that the 34 missing sabungeros were buried in Taal Lake, Batangas.
Patidongan, one of six security guards accused of abducting the missing cockfighting enthusiasts, alleged that the victims were strangled with tie wire before their bodies were dumped into the lake. Local leaders noted that the sabungeros disappeared back in 2021.
Authorities continue to explore additional sites beyond Taal Lake in their search for the missing sabungeros, determined to uncover the full truth behind this case.
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