By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan | Philippine News Agency
The Philippine National Police (PNP) leadership directed investigators to ensure a solid evidentiary foundation before any charges are filed in the investigation of the 521-kilogram suspected “shabu” shipment intercepted in Laos.
In a statement on Thursday, PNP chief PGen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. expressed confidence that the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) has thoroughly scrutinized all evidence to ensure that those behind the operation are held accountable under the law.
“I am satisfied with the progress of the investigation and the diligence shown by our investigators. The evidence gathered reflects a thorough, evidence-based approach aimed at establishing the truth and ensuring accountability,” PGen. Nartatez said.
The CIDG is expected to submit its investigation report on the case to the PNP chief by Friday, Oct. 23.
The report stems from months of investigation that included the review of closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage, collection of witness testimonies, issuance of more than 40 subpoenas and examination of documentary evidence linked to the alleged attempt to transport a large quantity of illegal drugs using a chartered aircraft.
“The CIDG and our partner agencies have worked methodically to piece together the facts. What matters is that the investigation remains objective, comprehensive, and anchored on credible evidence,” PGen. Nartatez Jr. said.
As part of the directive, the PNP chief ordered the continued pursuit and location of persons of interest who remain unaccounted for, stressing that their participation in the investigation is necessary to establish the complete circumstances surrounding the case.
In a press conference on Wednesday, CIDG director Maj. Gen. Alexander Morico II said seven out of 11 persons of interest in the illegal drugs shipment have appeared before the CIDG.
He also noted that they have already released around 40 subpoenas to individuals, companies and government agencies in connection with the case.
He said investigators are trying to locate them through their known addresses listed in the Land Transportation Office and the Commission on Elections, including from information gathered in social media.
PMGen. Morico, however, clarified that not all those summoned are persons of interest, saying they were just asked to shed light on some questions as the CIDG checked on all the circumstances to complete the entire story behind the shabu importation.
PMGen. Morico said that once the investigation is done, it would be up to the legal teams of PNP and PDEA to decide the cases that would be filed against all those involved.
