Ex-NBI chief fails bid to transfer probe of his frustrated murder case

Former National Bureau of Investigation Director Magtanggol Gatdula. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines—The Department of Justice Panel of Prosecutors on Thursday dismissed the motion filed by former National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Magtanggol Gatdula to transfer the investigation of the frustrated murder case against him before the City Prosecutors Office.

Assistant State Prosecutor Gerard Gaerlan, one of the panel members, said the motion filed by Gatdula has no merit.

Gatdula is facing a case for frustrated murder in connection with the foiled ambush of NBI Deputy Director Reynaldo Esmeralda on Feb. 20, 2012.

Gatdula’s camp immediately sought a reconsideration of ruling. The DOJ panel gave Esmeralda’s camp five days to respond.

Esmeralda and his brother were ambushed on February by two men riding a motorcycle while travelling in a four-vehicle convoy along Apacible Street, Paco, Manila. Esmeralda sustained minor injuries while his brother was hit by a bullet on the right shoulder.