MANILA – Acting Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. on Wednesday rejected allegations that fugitive businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang has been avoiding arrest with assistance from police officers, saying there is no evidence to support the claims.
“Our personnel will not be distracted by these unfounded accusations,” Nartatez said in a statement. “Walang pruweba ang sinumang nag-aakusa sa atin nang ganito.”
The PNP chief made the remarks following reports alleging that Ang has been receiving protection from police officers with supposed ties to him, enabling him to remain at large.
Nartatez said the PNP takes allegations involving the integrity of the organization seriously and acts on them accordingly.
“We are mindful of all the allegations involving the integrity of the PNP,” he said. “We verify and immediately take action as part of our efforts to sustain the trust and confidence of the Filipino people to their police force.”
He also denied accusations that authorities are deliberately withholding information on Ang’s location in order to eventually claim the P10-million reward offered for his arrest.
Nartatez emphasized that anyone who helps a fugitive evade arrest faces serious legal consequences, adding that penalties are even heavier for police officers and other government personnel.
Ang is currently the subject of multiple arrest warrants stemming from kidnapping cases linked to the disappearance of several cockfighting enthusiasts./PN
