7 Koreans, 34 others face raps for violent resort takeover

CEBU, Philippines — Police yesterday filed complaints against seven Koreans and 34 security personnel of a resort-casino in Barangay Agus, Lapu-Lapu City who allegedly led a violent attempt to take over the company from its present owners.

Chief Inspector Juan Capacio of Marigondon Police Station told The FREEMAN they have filed complaints for grave coercion, grave threat, slight illegal detention, and obstruction of justice against the employees of Proceed Security Agency (PSA) before the Lapu-Lapu City Prosecutor’s Office.

Capacio said even the two wounded security personnel from PSA, which is based in Cagayan de Oro City, were not spared from the complaint.

Also among the respondents were Korean nationals who are members of the Park family, which reportedly has a larger share in the resort.

Senior Superintendent Limuel Obon, chief of Lapu-Lapu City Police Office (LCPO), said in an earlier report an internal conflict was the root cause of the violence.

The security workers reportedly arrived at Mactan Isla Resort and Casino on August 10 to illegally take over the resort but were barred by the guards from Blue Breed Security Agency (BBSA). As a result, a commotion ensued.

Alberto Elola, a retired soldier, suffered a gunshot wound in the upper left chest when BBSA guards allegedly shot him.

Gerry Carrillo, legal counsel of the PSA security personnel and the Korean nationals, yesterday asked the City Prosecutor's Office to expedite the filing of the cases so his clients can immediately apply for bail.

“It is tragic for them, for the Park family. They have sold their properties in Korea to invest a business here in Cebu and now they being filed with complaints,” Carrillo said.

Once they have posted their bail, the Korean nationals intend to file a motion for reconsideration and a separate motion for re-investigation of the case. (FREEMAN)