The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) clarified that the arrest of former congressman Zaldy Co in Prague, Czech Republic, was not connected to any Interpol red notice.
NBI Director Atty. Melvin Matibag said the arrest was due to immigration concerns and not related to any international police alert.
Matibag explained that authorities in Prague took Co into custody over issues involving his immigration status. He stressed that there was no Interpol red notice that led to the arrest.
The NBI also said it is prepared to act if an order is issued for Co’s immediate return to the Philippines.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. earlier confirmed the arrest of Co on Thursday evening. According to the president, Co was apprehended after allegedly entering the Czech Republic without proper documents.
Officials said Co is currently under the custody of authorities in Prague while legal procedures are ongoing.
Philippine government officials are continuing to coordinate with the Czech government to ensure proper handling of the case and to determine the possibility of returning Co to the Philippines.
Authorities have not released additional details about the duration of Co’s stay in Prague or the specific immigration violations involved.
The NBI reiterated that the arrest should not be linked to any Interpol-related action, emphasizing that the matter is strictly an immigration issue under Czech authorities.
Further updates are expected as coordination between Philippine and Czech officials continues regarding the legal process and any potential repatriation arrangements for Co.
