PNP, Interpol seek Roque for trafficking in Lucky South 99 scam

The Philippine National Police (PNP) plans to work with Interpol to locate former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque, who is seeking political asylum in The Netherlands.

Roque was ordered arrested by an Angeles City court for qualified trafficking charges related to the operations of Lucky South 99 scam hub in Porac, Pampanga.

During a press briefing on Friday, May 16, PNP Public Information Office Chief Colonel Randulf Tuaño said coordination with Interpol is being considered and that the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) will work with the Bureau of Immigration to trace Cassandra Li Ong's whereabouts.

Roque left the Philippines last September after refusing to attend House hearings on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators, and has since publicly shared he is applying for political asylum in the Netherlands.

The Department of Justice (DOJ) said it may tap diplomatic channels to secure Roque and Ong’s return to face their charges, with Assistant Secretary Mico Clavano clarifying that Roque is one of many individuals involved in the case.

Roque claims he is being persecuted in the country and intends to use the arrest warrant as evidence for his asylum application, but it ultimately depends on the Netherlands government's interpretation.