NBI seizes Amalilio’s Lamborghini

MANILA, Philippines - National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) agents seized a sports car, reportedly owned by alleged investment scam mastermind Manuel Amalilio, abandoned in the basement of a high-end condominium in Mandaluyong City, officials said yesterday.

Justice Secretary Leila de Lima and NBI Director Nonnatus Caesar Rojas presented the Lamborghini Gallardo Coupe Regolare in a press conference at the NBI office yesterday afternoon.

The gray two-seater was imported from Italy and cost P17 million, according to its import entry and sales invoice, which stated that Amalilio bought the car from Lamborghini Manila.

According to the NBI, the car was parked at the basement of the BSA Twin Tower Condominium by Shaffic Risaib Shah three months ago. Shah leased a parking slot for a month and left a calling card for reference.

The parking slot has since been sold and the owner wanted the car removed. Shah, however, did not respond to letters, calls or text messages.

Building officials reported the vehicle to police officers, who turned it over to the NBI.

De Lima said she hopes the discovery of the sports car will lead investigators to Amalilio’s other hidden assets.