The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) is reportedly exploring the possibility that fugitive gaming tycoon Atong Ang may be hiding in casinos and hotels.

Based on Jecelle Ricafort's report on Magandang Umaga Pilipinas, NBI Acting Director Atty. Lito Magno said the agency is verifying and acting on all information that could lead to the businessman’s whereabouts. This includes sending operatives to areas of interest and, once verified, planning follow-up operations.

Magno made the statement after being asked whether the NBI has information suggesting that Ang may be staying in casinos or hotels he frequented in the past.

The development comes amid allegations from whistleblower Julie Patidongan, who claimed that Ang allegedly hired police officers to abduct and kill cockfight operators caught cheating.

Meanwhile, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) confirmed that the unverified report of Ang fleeing to Cambodia, with a P10-million bounty on his head, is still under investigation.