An Interpol Red Notice has been issued against businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang, Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla confirmed on Thursday, April 16.

During an interview on DZRH’s Dos Por Dos, Remulla said the fugitive gaming tycoon remains in the country, was reportedly spotted in Region IV-A two weeks ago, and is now barred from leaving the country.

“Officially mayroon na siyang Red Notice, lumabas na. Hindi na siya pwedeng lumabas ng bansa,” Remulla said.

“Nagkaroon kami ng eyeball confirmation na sa isang lugar dito sa Region 4-A. Noong nalaman namin nag-organize kaagad kami ng team pinasok namin ‘yung lugar. We missed him by a day or two. Pero nandito [sa Pilipinas] pa siya.”

The Red Notice, released through Interpol, alerts law enforcement agencies worldwide to locate and provisionally arrest a person pending extradition.

Earlier this week, Remulla disclosed that Charlie “Atong” Ang was nearly apprehended during a police operation after reportedly being spotted in the Philippines last week. This followed earlier reports placing him in Vietnam last month.

Despite the close calls, the Interior chief expressed confidence that authorities will eventually capture Ang.

“Puro muntik na pero makukuha rin ‘yan,” Remulla said.

Law enforcement agencies continue to intensify operations to track down the businessman, who remains at large while most of his co-accused have already been detained.

Whistleblower Julie “Dondon” Patidongan earlier alleged that Ang orchestrated the abduction of several sabungeros (cockfighting enthusiasts) across Bulacan, Manila, Laguna, and Batangas. The victims were allegedly killed and their bodies dumped in Taal Lake.

Ang is currently the only fugitive among 20 individuals charged in connection with the case. Authorities have placed a ₱20 million bounty for information leading to his arrest.