Philippine authorities are intensifying the hunt for prominent businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang, now the focus of an Interpol Red Notice.
International Alert
The 68-year-old gambling magnate is the main suspect in the disappearance of at least 34 people between 2021 and 2022, all allegedly connected to cockfighting, or “sabungeros.”
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) called for an international alert in mid-January in efforts to locate Ang.
After 10 search operations last week, DILG secretary Juanito Victor Remulla confirmed on Tuesday that Ang’s location is still unknown.
“We’re serious here,” said Remulla, highlighting that Ang is considered armed and dangerous. The reward for information leading to his capture has been increased from PHP 10 million ($172,700) to PHP 20 million ($345,200).
Ang is wanted on multiple arrest warrants, facing charges of “kidnapping, serious illegal detention, and kidnapping with homicide” in relation to the missing sabungeros.
There are rumors he may have escaped to countries like Cambodia, but Remulla states intelligence suggests he remains in the Philippines.
Hotlines and Ongoing Raids
The manhunt has become a central focus for law enforcement. Dedicated hotlines, crowdsourced tips, and coordinated raids have been established to find Ang. The Interpol Red Notice gives the case an international scope, signaling global police agencies that he’s eligible for provisional arrest pending extradition.
Ang is familiar with public attention. Former President Rodrigo Duterte dubbed him the “number one gambler” in his hometown and enlisted his help to tackle illegal gambling in the nation.
In 2000, Ang was part of a scandal involving former President Joseph Estrada, who faced accusations of diverting gambling funds, leading to his impeachment.
Though Ang is still at large, his 20 co-accused, including former and current police officers, are in custody.
Authorities continue to stress that capturing Ang is a top priority, casting the search as a significant national law enforcement mission under intense scrutiny.
- SCCG Management. The Gambling Industry’s Global Connector. Access Here.
- Source: SCCGManagement.com