Robredo orders probe of Dominguez brothers' ambush

MANILA, Philippines - Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo has ordered an investigation into the ambush attempt on suspected carjack gang leaders Raymond and Roger Dominguez.

Robredo ordered Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Nicanor Bartolome to “leave no stone unturned” until the suspects are identified and arrested.

Robredo also directed Bureau of Jail Management and Penology Jail Director Rosendo Dial to enhance security and add jail escorts when transporting high-profile inmates.

He said Dial should also look into reports that the jail guards who were assigned to escort the Dominguez brothers did not get the details of the motorcycle as well as the suspects.

“The BJMP leadership should ensure that jail guards are properly briefed and follow the necessary security procedures before and during the transfer of inmates,” Robredo said.

The Dominguez brothers had just come from a court hearing on the car theft with homicide case in connection with the killing of car dealer Venson Evangelista when they were ambushed.

Raymond was injured by a bullet that grazed his right ear. Roger was unhurt.

Another unidentified inmate in the jail vehicle was also wounded. 

The DILG chief said police are also looking into the possibility that the slay attempt was perpetrated by the chorts of the Dominguez brothers in the carjacking syndicate.

 “We are probing all angles, but as of this time, we do not want to jump to conclusions. We will allow the police to check all possible leads and wrap up their investigation,” he said.

Arsenio Evangelista, father of slain car dealer Venson, condemned the attack on the Dominguez brothers and cautioned against insinuations that he could be behind it.

“I believe that life is sacred. I also believe in due process,” Arsenio said.

The elder Evangelista also said they have a strong case against the Dominguez brothers.

He also called on the PNP and the BJMP to provide security not only to the accused but also to the complainants and witnesses. – Cecille Suerte Felipe, Reinir Padua