CIDG forms task group to find 26 missing players

MANILA, Philippines — The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) has formed a special investigation task group (SITG) to hasten the probe into the disappearance and abduction of at least 26 cockfight players.

CIDG director Maj. Gen. Albert Ignatius Ferro said yesterday the SITG, formed on Jan. 24, is composed of the CIDG’s regional field units in Metro Manila, Calabarzon and Central Luzon, the regions where the cockfight aficionados have gone missing.

Ferro said they formed the SITG to consolidate the efforts of all investigating units.

“It is our commitment and responsibility to the families of the missing persons. Let us give our investigators on the ground our full support.” he said in a statement.

Ferro ordered investigators to use all available resources and assets to solve the case.

The investigative arm of the Philippine National Police (PNP) started receiving complaints from relatives of some of the missing cockfighters last Jan. 14.

Ferro said the SITG’s objectives are to locate the missing victims and determine who is responsible for their disappearance.

The CIDG has summoned Manila Arena administrator Cesar Sulit and security guards Mark Carlo Zabala, Rogelio Borican, Bergelio Bayog, Joey Pirrira and Arnel Arturo to shed light on the disappearance of six cockfight players last Jan. 13.

However, their lawyer asked to be given until Feb. 8 to submit documents required by the CIDG.