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DOJ starts this month preliminary probe on criminal charges in missing 'sabungeros'

Philippines | National

DOJ starts this month preliminary probe on criminal charges in missing 'sabungeros'

By Jeffrey Damicog

The Department of Justice (DOJ) will start this month the preliminary investigation of the multiple murder and serious illegal detention charges filed against at least 60 persons in the cases of the missing “sabungeros.”

DOJ Prosecutor General Richard Anthony D. Fadullon said the preliminary investigation will probably start on Sept. 18 to determine if the charges will be filed in court.

Earlier, the DOJ said that among those subpoenaed to answer the charges were businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang and actress Gretchen Barretto.

Ang and Barreto have denied the allegations against them filed by the families of the missing “sabungeros” before the DOJ.

“The respondents will be given the opportunity to submit their counter-affidavits,” Fadullon said.

He reminded the respondents that they are required to appear before the panel of prosecutors during the preliminary investigation.

“Remember that the prosecutor will have to certify that they have personally examined not only the complainants but the respondents and their witnesses as well,” he explained.

“So, the only way that they can do that is for them to personally appear before the panel of prosecutors,” he added.

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