DOJ warns of raps vs Peter Lim coddlers

MANILA, Philippines — Criminal cases await individuals helping Cebu businessman Peter Lim hide from authorities and evade a drug trading conspiracy case against him, the Department of Justice (DOJ) said yesterday.

DOJ Secretary Menardo Guevarra issued the warning as he revealed that Lim remains in the country as there is no indication that the fugitive was able to leave.

“Definitely, we will also run after the coddlers of (Lim). Those found to have aided him in evading arrest will face criminal cases,” Guevarra said in a text message.

The DOJ chief specifically cited charges of obstruction of justice under the Revised Penal Code and Presidential Decree No. 1829 as possible cases against the coddlers.

Arresting teams of the Philippine National Police (PNP) and National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) have been hunting down Lim for 20 days since the Makati City Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 65 issued a warrant last Aug. 14.

“Too bad the PNP and the NBI have yet to find some leads as to his whereabouts,” Guevarra said.

Authorities said it is highly probable that Lim being aided by individuals in his wide network in evading arrest.

The RTC has also issued a hold-departure order against the businessman to prevent him from leaving the country.

Guevarra said Lim could still be in the country as of yesterday based on records of the Bureau of Immigration (BI). 

“Per BI records, (Lim) has not left the country since his last trip in March,” Guevarra said.

Should Lim be able to sneak out of the country, Guevarra stressed that the government can seek the help of the International Criminal Police Organization in finding him.