Quezon city: Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III announced that 15 police officers connected to the disappearance of 'sabungeros' (cockfight aficionados) are now in restrictive custody at Camp Crame. The officers are under investigation for their alleged involvement in the case.

According to Philippines News Agency, Gen. Torre stated that the PNP has collaborated with the National Police Commission (Napolcom) to conduct an in-depth investigation. This partnership aims to ensure transparency and impartiality, along with achieving justice. The investigation will address both criminal and administrative charges against the officers, among whom is a lieutenant colonel.

Gen. Torre emphasized the investigation will not be limited to the 15 officers currently under scrutiny. As the probe proceeds, more individuals may be implicated. He reiterated the importance of resolving these incidents, which he described as "grisly" and "unacceptable."

Whistleblower Julie "Dondon" Patidongan, alias Totoy, has been in communication with the police since Torre's tenure as the chief of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG). However, Torre chose not to disclose the specifics of Patidongan's approach to CIDG. His focus remains on delivering justice to the victims and purging the organization of unethical personnel.

Reports suggest that Taal Lake was a disposal site for some of the missing sabungeros. Torre mentioned that other locations might have been used for similar purposes, and these areas are also under investigation.

Patidongan previously accused business tycoon Charlie "Atong" Ang of involvement in the disappearances and alleged killings of the sabungeros. He asserted that some police officers, reportedly on Ang's payroll, played significant roles in the events. Ang has denied these accusations and filed extortion charges against Patidongan on July 3, alleging a PHP300 million extortion attempt.