The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has formally requested the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) to issue a red notice against former Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) General Manager and ex-police colonel Royina Garma, who is being tagged as the alleged mastermind in the killing of former PCSO Board Secretary Wesley Barayuga.

In an interview with DZRH News, NBI Director Jaime Santiago confirmed that the bureau has already sent an official letter to Interpol, though it usually takes several months before a red notice is issued.

According to Santiago, Garma has yet to respond to the contact number she left with the NBI before flying to Malaysia, reportedly to meet with officials of the International Criminal Court (ICC).

However, Santiago noted that the number, which previously could not be reached, is now ringing. Garma had earlier promised to return to the Philippines once an arrest warrant was issued against her.

The NBI’s latest information indicates that Garma remains in Malaysia together with a cousin she previously introduced to authorities.

It can be recalled that Branch 279 of the Mandaluyong Regional Trial Court has already issued an arrest warrant against Garma and four others implicated in the crime, and has ordered the cancellation of their passports.