Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla revealed on Thursday that authorities are building a complex case against a powerful syndicate believed to be behind a string of killings tied to illegal online cockfighting, or e-sabong. The group’s operations, he warned, may involve both public officials and rogue police officers.
A breakthrough in the case came after a key witness surfaced, providing a sworn affidavit that named the alleged mastermind behind the criminal network. Remulla did not identify the suspect but described him as a prominent figure with deep connections and significant influence.
According to Remulla, the syndicate leader reportedly bragged about being untouchable—even in the highest court of the land. “He reportedly said he could handle the case, even at the Supreme Court. That’s why we plan to talk to Chief Justice [Alexander] Gesmundo about this,” he said in a Manila Times report.
The justice chief explained that the syndicate’s massive financial resources have become a major obstacle for law enforcement. “The money they’re working with is staggering,” he added, expressing concern over how it could potentially be used to manipulate the justice system.
Remulla also raised alarm over the possibility that the syndicate maintains a network of police officers who help protect its operations. He said reports from parts of Luzon indicate that local government units may be unable to run their own e-sabong activities unless they secure permission from powerful individuals linked to the group. While cautious in confirming these claims, he acknowledged the group’s significant reach.
“We’re still building the case,” Remulla emphasized, urging patience as authorities work to secure more evidence and avoid compromising the investigation.
The announcement comes amid growing attention on the disappearance of several sabungeros in recent years. Authorities now suspect these incidents form part of a broader campaign of targeted killings orchestrated by criminal syndicates profiting from the illegal gambling trade.
