14 suspected foreign kidnappers of Singaporean opt for preliminary probe

Fourteen of the more than 40 foreign nationals linked to a kidnapping for ransom group insisted that they be subjected to a preliminary investigation instead of a criminal case being directly filed against them in court.

The 14 foreign nationals were part of an alleged syndicate preying on high roller casino players.  They were arrested by joint operatives of the Bureau of Immigration (BI) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) on Tuesday leading to the rescue of Singaporean national Wu Yan.

READ: 45 suspected foreign kidnappers arrested, Singaporean victim rescued

During the inquest proceeding Wednesday, 14 of the 44 arrested suspects signed a waiver of detention so that the Department of Justice (DOJ) will conduct a preliminary investigation. In the preliminary investigation, the 14 will be required to submit their counter-affidavits in response to the complaint filed by the BI and PNP.

An inquest proceeding is conducted against suspects subjected to a warrantless arrest like a buy-bust operation or during a raid. The arrested suspects will be informed of their violation. The suspects may opt to undergo the regular preliminary investigation by signing a waiver of detention as required under the Rules on Criminal Procedure; if not, the prosecutor will submit the case for resolution and determine if there is basis to charge them in court.

Senior Deputy State Prosecutor Richard Anthony Fadullon said another suspect who remains at large will also be subjected to a preliminary investigation.

READ: 45 foreigners questioned on abduction of casino high-rollers

On the other hand, the DOJ has submitted for resolution the case against the 30. The prosecutor will determine if there is basis to charge them in court. JE/rga