MANILA — The Department of Justice (DOJ) has returned the complaint filed by the Philippine National Police–Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) for obstruction of justice against Sen. Robin Padilla for further investigation, Justice Secretary Frederick Vida said.

In a report, it said that in a briefing, Vida said the case was sent back to the CIDG in line with existing departmental procedures.

“This case was referred back to the CIDG for further investigation, pursuant to Department Circular No. 20,” Vida said.

He added that prosecutors handling the complaint requested additional documents and statements from concerned individuals.

“The investigating prosecutor requested further documents or certain statements from concerned individuals,” he said.

The CIDG earlier filed the complaint in May against Padilla and others, alleging they helped Sen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa leave the Senate premises.

Padilla, however, denied the allegation, saying he did not help dela Rosa “escape” and that the former police chief merely asked to ride with him when leaving the Senate building on May 14.

Vida declined to provide further details on the additional documents being required by the DOJ and did not set a timeline for the resubmission of the case.

“There was no deadline given to the PNP,” he said.

“I’m sure the PNP-CIDG’s leadership is aware of the public interest in the matter. Magfa-follow up din kami,” Vida added.

Dela Rosa is subject of an arrest warrant over alleged criminal responsibility as an indirect co-perpetrator in crimes against humanity of murder from July 3, 2016, until April 2018, during which at least 32 individuals were reportedly killed.