Manila: Fugitive businessman Charlie "Atong" Ang, who has been implicated in the 'missing sabungeros (cockfight enthusiasts)' case, has reportedly been spotted in Vietnam. This information was shared by Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla, who cited an intelligence report during a phone interview with reporters.

According to Philippines News Agency, Remulla mentioned that the report is being pursued for confirmation with Vietnamese authorities. He also noted that Ang has no recorded departure with the Bureau of Immigration, which raises concerns about his movements.

Courts in Laguna and Batangas have issued multiple non-bailable warrants of arrest against Ang. These warrants are related to charges of kidnapping and serious illegal detention linked to the disappearance of 34 cockfight enthusiasts. In response to these developments, the Department of the Interior and Local Government has offered a PHP20-million reward for Ang's arrest.

Remulla expressed skepticism about Ang's ability to expand his gambling operations in Vietnam, highlighting the strict law and order maintained by the communist government there. He remarked on the challenges Ang would likely face in attempting to establish his business operations under such governance.

Previously, there were reports suggesting that Ang was hiding in Cambodia. However, he allegedly relocated to Vietnam amid a crackdown on illegal gambling and online scams in Cambodia. Remulla noted the uncertainty regarding Ang's connections in Vietnam, stating that the intelligence report brought this information to his attention.