The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) warned that 18 individuals claiming to be former Marines may face contempt charges if they fail to appear before the agency for questioning.

NBI Director Melvin Matibag said the bureau may recommend to the Office of the Ombudsman the issuance of a contempt order against the group, particularly those linked to allegations involving supposed bagmen of former AKO Bicol Partylist Rep. Zaldy Co.

Matibag said the NBI could also seek assistance from the courts should the former soldiers ignore the subpoenas issued to them.

“Kailangan na mismong ang former Marines ang lumutang sa NBI para mausisa sa kanilang affidavit, malaman ang partisipasyon nila at hindi lang maging ‘hearsay’ ang kanilang alegasyon,” Matibag said.

The bureau has summoned 25 individuals in connection with the investigation, including lawyer Levi Baligod, former congressman Mike Defensor, and bishop Efraim Tendero, who served as witnesses in the notarization of the joint affidavit executed by the former Marines.

However, the NBI chief said there has been no confirmation yet whether the individuals summoned will appear before the agency.

Earlier, lawyer Charlie Pascual, who notarized the affidavit, already appeared before the NBI. An individual also came forward and confirmed that eight of the supposed ex-Marines were his personnel.

The NBI said the testimonies of the former Marines are crucial in verifying the claims stated in their affidavit and determining their exact participation in the allegations under investigation.