MANILA — The Department of Justice (DOJ) warned that anyone assisting fugitive businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang in evading arrest could face criminal liability.

DOJ spokesperson Polo Martinez said, “Any person who knowingly harbors, conceals, or assists a fugitive in evading arrest may be held criminally liable for obstruction of justice or as an accessory to the crime, depending on the facts.”

“Aiding the evasion of lawful arrest is a punishable offense under the law,” Martinez added.

Ang, wanted in connection with the disappearance and death of numerous cockfighting enthusiasts, has avoided capture despite 10 law enforcement raids in one week to serve multiple warrants issued by lower courts. A San Pablo City, Laguna court last week issued his third arrest warrant.

The Department of the Interior and Local Government has increased the reward for information leading to Ang’s arrest to PHP20 million. All 20 of his co-accused—including dismissed and active police officers—have been apprehended.

The Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation recently said there is “no record of Charlie Tiu Hay Ang’s entry or exit at any Cambodian border checkpoints.”