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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider NBI: Released customers of raided bar linked to ex-solon not yet off the hook

NBI: Released customers of raided bar linked to ex-solon not yet off the hook

Published Apr 27, 2026 05:14 pm
The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) assured on Monday, April 27, the released customers of the Chicago Family KTV in Pasig City are not yet off the hook despite being released during a raid of the establishment last week.
“Individuals found on the premises who initially appear to have no part in the criminal operation were released after proper identification and processing, without prejudice to filing of appropriate charges if evidence so warrant,” said the NBI.
“This is consistent with the constitutional right against warrantless detention absent probable cause,” added the NBI.
Pursuant to Department of Justice (DOJ) Circular No. 20, the bureau said it’s focus on gathering evidence has been directed at “establishing culpability against operators and traffickers, and at protecting the victims.”
Last April 21, the operatives of the NBU Special Task Group (NBI-STG) rescued 54 women from sex trafficking at the Chicago Family KTV which has been found linked to former congressman Mike Defensor.
The NBI has already filed charges against alleged operators of the establishment including Defensor’s wife and their child.
The bureau issued the statement on Monday after Ombudsman Jesus Crispin C. Remulla sought an investigation of the NBI for not having arrested one of the customers during the raid who was identified as Wack Wack Golf and Country Club president Lawrence N. Tan.
“The Chicago case is far from closed,” assured the NBI on Monday.
In a few days, the agency disclosed “the NBI will be filing additional charges against other individuals and entities in coordination with the DOJ Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (DOJ-IACAT).”
“We exercise prudence because we adhere to the standard of certainty of conviction — ensuring that cases filed in court are airtight and will not be dismissed on technical grounds that would ultimately prejudice the victims,” it stated.

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NBI Mike Defensor human trafficking
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