The National Bureau of Investigation has obtained more specific information that could help authorities determine the whereabouts of Sen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, while its search for former Bureau of Corrections chief Gerald Bantag continues.
NBI Director Melvin Matibag said the bureau remains committed to locating Dela Rosa and implementing the arrest warrant against him.
Matibag said authorities are exercising caution in their operations because of the senator’s background as a former law enforcement officer and public official. He also noted the possibility that other individuals could be helping Dela Rosa evade authorities.
Dela Rosa is wanted by the International Criminal Court in connection with crimes against humanity charges stemming from the war on drugs during the administration of former President Rodrigo Duterte.
Meanwhile, the NBI continues gathering information to establish Bantag’s whereabouts.
The former corrections chief is also subject to an arrest warrant in connection with the death of Jun Villamor, who was allegedly the middleman in the 2022 killing of broadcaster Percy Lapid.
Bantag has denied the allegations against him.
The NBI’s efforts to locate both individuals remain ongoing, with investigators continuing to gather information in connection with their respective cases.
