Alice Guo arrested in Indonesia — DOJ
Metro Manila, Philippines — Dismissed Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo has been arrested in Indonesia, government agencies confirmed on Wednesday, Sept. 4.
The Justice Department said Guo was arrested on Sept. 3, 11:58 p.m. in Tangerang City, Jakarta.
"The arrest of Alice Guo is a testament to the tireless efforts of our law enforcement agencies and the strength of international cooperation in bringing fugitives to justice. We will ensure that all legal processes are followed to hold her accountable for any crimes committed," Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said in a statement.
As of posting time, she is under the custody of Indonesian police.
Citing information from Philippine National Police chief (PNP) PGen Rommel Marbil, Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos told NewsWatch Plus that Indonesian authorities are coordinating with their Philippine counterpart.
Authorities are working on Guo’s repatriation.
“Immigration Commissioner Norman Tansingco is currently coordinating with the Indonesian immigration authorities for her possible return to the Philippines at the soonest possible time,” the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission said.
PNP spokesperson PCol Jean Fajardo said Guo may possibly return to the country within the day.
She said police officers who may be proven to have helped Guo will be accountable.
“Sa ngayon ay wala pa po tayong identified na possible involved dito sa pag-alis ni Mayor Alice Guo, at kung meron man po na nanonood sa'tin ngayon at nakikinig na meron pong information, hinihikayat po natin na makipag-cooperate po sila para mabigyang linaw po ito, 'yung naging pag-alis ni Alice Guo sa ating bansa,” Fajardo said in a press briefing.
[Translation: As of now, we have not identified anyone who assisted Guo in leaving the country, and if people who are watching or listening to us have any information, we encourage you to cooperate to shed light on the matter.]
Guo has been tagged in crimes linked to Philippine offshore gaming operations such as human trafficking and illegal detention.
Her apprehension came almost two weeks after her supposed sister Shiela and her business associate Cassandra Li Ong were caught by Indonesian authorities.
In a Senate hearing, Shiela said they left the Philippines through three boat transfers.
