Author: user user

If Bato doesn’t surrender, what next?

Efforts to track down Sen. Ronald ‘Bato’ dela Rosa would continue if he does not turn himself over to authorities within the one-week deadline set by the police, Malacañang said yesterday.

The government has offered a P50-million bounty for the capture of Dela Rosa, who has a standing arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court for alleged crimes against humanity.

Dela Rosa, the former Philippine National Police chief who implemented the Duterte administration’s bloody drug war, was given one week to surrender.

Asked yesterday what would happen if Dela Rosa does not surrender within the week, Palace press officer Claire Castro said the police would continue its operation to locate him.

‘As (Interior) Secretary (Jonvic) Remulla said, there would be no mercy so the law should be implemented. Arrest the one who should be arrested,’ Castro told state-run Radyo Pilipinas.

Castro justified putting up a bounty for Dela Rosa’s arrest, saying it is part of the operations of the Department of the Interior and Local Government and the PNP.

‘The confidential and intelligence funds given to the DILG and the PNP are allocated to this because it is a real operation,’ Castro said.

‘If this is the way they spend the intelligence fund, this is just appropriate as long as they can prove that they are conducting operations and if they are producing results,’ she added.

Remulla said Dela Rosa is hiding in Mindanao and is being protected by a powerful group. He claimed that the fugitive senator’s protectors have armed personnel and that a confrontation could result in fatalities worse than the 2017 Marawi siege.

Malacañang has urged Dela Rosa to surrender to avoid bloodshed.

No negotiation

National Bureau of Investigation Director Melvin Matibag said there is no negotiation between the NBI and Dela Rosa, saying the bureau is processing information that could lead to the senator’s immediate capture.

‘We want to get him as soon as possible because we have a commitment to the international community and the people. We need answers, so hopefully we can arrest him soon,’ Matibag told reporters.

NBI agents failed to apprehend Dela Rosa while the latter was under Senate custody prior to the senator’s escape on May 14.

PNP tracker teams

The PNP has formed tracker teams, including Special Action Force personnel, to locate and arrest Dela Rosa after authorities gave the senator until Thursday to surrender.

PNP spokesman Col. Allen Rae Co said yesterday the operation was intensified upon the order of President Marcos, with a task force led by deputy chief for administration Lt. Gen. Wilson Lopez coordinating the manhunt.?

‘The full force of the PNP is in play to bring justice within the folds of the law,’ Co said, adding that police prefer a peaceful resolution to avoid putting the lives of the senator, law enforcers and the public at risk.?

Co said authorities had received no feelers from Dela Rosa regarding a possible surrender.

He added that the latest information gathered by police indicated that the senator remained in the Philippines, although investigators were still verifying his last known whereabouts.

Ping: Bato safer in Philippines

Sen. Panfilo Lacson said Dela Rosa may be safer in the Philippines instead of fleeing the country and getting arrested abroad.

Speaking to dzMM yesterday, Lacson said Dela Rosa is more prone to arrest overseas using the warrant from a foreign tribunal like the ICC, especially in countries with extradition treaties.

‘What’s difficult is that it’s an international warrant. So where does he go? He is more exposed overseas,’ Lacson said.

‘It’s safer here in the Philippines,’ he added.

Speaking in an interview at the Senate, Sen. JV Ejercito said Dela Rosa deserves due process.

‘I’m hoping it’s peaceful. No need to use force or anything like that, but a peaceful resolution,’ Ejercito said.

Slow visa processing disrupts travel to Thailand

Slow visa processing in countries whose visa-free privileges have been withdrawn has disrupted travel to Thailand, with many travellers opting for Vietnam instead. Airlines have also reported a large number of no-show passengers and urged the government to resolve the issue as soon as possible.

Meanwhile, the Saudi Arabia market suffered a sharp 40% decline following the closure of Riyadh’s international airport after Houthi strikes earlier this month.

Emirates was among the airlines reporting the consequences of the slow visa application process, recording 30-40 no-show passengers per flight on its Mexico-Thailand route, as many travellers were unable to obtain visas before their departure dates.

Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul said the ministry had acknowledged the issue. The visa policy committee is scheduled to meet on Nov 9, when the tourism ministry will propose granting visa privileges to several Latin American countries, including Mexico, as well as Uzbekistan.

However, the committee must thoroughly discuss the candidates on the list, taking both security and economic factors into account.

According to sources in the travel industry, many tourists from Latin America have shifted their travel plans to other destinations with faster and more convenient visa procedures, particularly Vietnam, which offers tourism products similar to those of Thailand.

Chiravadee Khunsub, deputy governor for Europe, Africa, the Middle East and the Americas at the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), said that even though the European and US markets remained largely unfazed by the Middle East conflict, posting growth of 0.09% and 0.19%, respectively, the war continued to have a significant impact on Gulf countries, which are directly affected, resulting in a decline of 8.1% as of Oct 20.

SAUDI MARKET HIT HARD

She said the Saudi market, which had been among the fastest-growing markets in recent years, plunged by almost 40%, mainly due to disruptions at Riyadh’s main airport this month, as airlines were forced to cancel flights following several Houthi attacks and the airport’s closure.

This resulted in the suspension of 10 direct flights per week between Riyadh and Bangkok, leaving only nine weekly flights between Jeddah and Bangkok still in operation.

Mrs Chiravadee said the recovery of the Middle East market had also stalled after a strong rebound in pent-up demand when conditions improved in the third quarter.

However, with Middle Eastern airlines having resumed all services to maintain slots at previous levels, she said the agency expects the region to stage a solid recovery once the conflict subsides.

For instance, during the winter season, Qatar Airways is increasing its direct flights from Doha to Phuket to 21 per week from 14, with the increase scheduled to take effect on Oct 25.

During the fourth quarter, she said the number of visitors from long-haul markets is projected to reach 3.38 million, driven by continued growth from several markets, led by Poland and the Nordic countries, which recorded increases of 10.8% and 5.8%, respectively, during the first 10 months of the year.

Forward bookings for the final quarter also remain strong in several key markets, including Russia, up 34% year-on-year, Kazakhstan, up 45%, Finland, up 29%, Denmark, up 14%, Sweden, up 13% and Norway, up 8%.

For the first quarter of 2027, forward bookings recorded by Amadeus Destination Gateway indicate that arrivals from long-haul markets to Thailand are expected to reach 2.25 million, an increase of 18.3% year-on-year, with the Middle East posting the strongest growth at 38.2%, followed by Europe at 17.5%.

Mrs Chiravadee said the trend next year is likely to see more airlines expand long-haul direct services that bypass Middle Eastern hubs, offering travellers more options to plan trips that avoid potential risks associated with these hubs.

This trend is already evident in airlines’ expansion this year, with direct flights from Europe, the US and Africa totalling around 5.73 million seats, up 5.56% year-on-year as of Oct 2.

This winter, notable new direct services include Scandinavian Airlines’ flights from Copenhagen to Phuket and Krabi.

CAUTION PERSISTS

In 2027, the TAT projects that arrivals from long-haul markets will reach 11 million, up 4% from this year, generating 730 billion baht in revenue, also an increase of 4%.

She said the agency must continue efforts to stimulate spending in certain underperforming markets that have been affected by rising fuel costs, weakening economic confidence and price-sensitive consumer behaviour.

These include the UK market, which declined by 3-4% this year, as around 30% of travellers relied on connecting flights through Middle Eastern airports, prompting more people to take holiday trips within Europe instead during the past summer.

For markets facing ongoing protests, Mrs Chiravadee said the agency is closely monitoring the situation. While there has been no immediate impact, as most tourists had already booked their holidays in advance, the situation could affect bookings for next year.

To prepare for any potential impact, she said the agency has already held discussions with airlines on launching joint promotions.

One new partnership is expected with Italy’s flag carrier, ITA Airways, which has merged with the Lufthansa Group.

The TAT and ITA Airways are planning to organise familiarisation trips to raise Thailand’s profile in the Italian market, with the TAT hoping that the airline will upgrade its Thailand services to year-round operations rather than operating only during the peak season.

Suladda Sarutilavan, TAT’s executive director of Europe, said the agency recently hosted the Amazing Thailand Fest 2026 in Madrid, attracting around 5,000 visitors after promoting the event through 430 digital screens across the city.

She said the Spanish market has strong growth potential, supported by flight connections from several Spanish cities via Istanbul, a major aviation hub that offers access to Thailand without relying on Middle Eastern transit points.

The agency also held an inaugural flight ceremony on Oct 25 for Belavia, which has launched scheduled services from Minsk, Belarus, to Bangkok with one weekly flight and will reinstate its direct Minsk-Phuket service with two flights per week from Oct 29 to serve higher demand during the winter season.

Japan pledges over Rs. 600 m for Kelani River water quality project

Japan has pledged over Rs. 600 million for a five-year project to monitor and improve water quality in the Kelani River basin, with the first consignment of water testing equipment handed over to Environment Minister Dr. Dammika Patabendi yesterday.

Implemented through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST) under the SATREPS program, the 2026-2030 project will set up a basin-wide monitoring network and an aquatic environment data platform to collect and analyse water quality information, supporting evidence-based Government policymaking.

It will also develop policy frameworks, train personnel, engage technical experts and publish research findings.

Japanese representatives handed over the equipment at a steering committee meeting at the Central Environmental Authority (CEA) auditorium. It was then distributed among the CEA, the University of Moratuwa and General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University. The University of Moratuwa’s Aquatic Environment Data Operations Centre will play a key role in implementation.

The 145 km Kelani River, with a basin of about 2,300 sq. km, is a major source of drinking water for Colombo and surrounding areas. Approximately one-fourth of Sri Lanka’s population lives in the basin, which has 14 major water treatment and distribution facilities and more than 5,400 industries, including CEA-authorised operations in the Biyagama and Seethawaka industrial zones.

The river faces significant pollution from industrial wastewater, untreated sewage, agricultural waste, and sand and gem mining, while floods and droughts also affect water quality. There are no specific groundwater quality standards either, a concern as groundwater is a major source of drinking water for many Western Province households.

Environment Ministry Secretary K.R. Uduwawala leads the steering committee, while Tohoku University Prof. So Kasama is principal investigator. The meeting was attended by JICA representatives, CEA Chairman Prof. Tilak Hewawasam, CEA Director General Kapila Rajapaksa, University of Moratuwa Department of Civil Engineering Prof. Lalith Rajapaksa, the Kaduwela Municipal Commissioner and Environment Ministry officials. The Department of Irrigation, the Water Resources Board and the Clean Sri Lanka Secretariat are also involved.

The project aims to lay a scientific foundation for water quality management across the basin, with the goal of ensuring safer drinking water for the public by 2030.

Hidayat Heydarov ends speculation over move to heavier judo category

Azerbaijani Olympic judo champion Hidayat Heydarov has decided to continue competing in the under-73kg weight category, ending speculation over a possible move to the heavier under-81kg division.

Heydarov is also scheduled to compete in the under-73kg category at the Abu Dhabi Grand Slam, which will take place in the capital of the United Arab Emirates from October 29 to 31. The tournament will provide the Olympic champion with another opportunity to test his form against international opponents and continue his preparations for upcoming competitions.

The decision follows concerns raised by Richard Trautmann, performance director of Azerbaijan’s national judo teams and head coach of the men’s squad. Speaking at a press conference in Baku reviewing the results of the World Judo Championships, Trautmann said Heydarov was experiencing significant difficulties with weight management and faced a choice between remaining in the under-73kg division and moving up to under-81kg.

The two categories present different physical and competitive demands. Remaining at under-73kg allows Heydarov to continue competing in the division in which he established himself as one of Azerbaijan’s leading judokas, while a move to under-81kg would require adjustments to his physical preparation, tactics and competitive approach.

Weight management is a particularly important consideration in elite judo, where athletes must meet strict limits before competition while maintaining the strength, endurance and explosiveness required for successive bouts. A carefully managed approach can help athletes balance their competitive weight with their physical condition throughout a demanding international season.

Heydarov’s decision also carries significance for Azerbaijan’s national team, which continues to rely on his experience and international standing in the under-73kg category. His participation in Abu Dhabi will attract attention from Azerbaijani judo fans as he seeks to maintain his competitive rhythm on the international circuit.

The Abu Dhabi Grand Slam is part of the International Judo Federation’s World Judo Tour, bringing together competitors from different countries across multiple weight categories. The event offers valuable ranking opportunities and a chance for athletes to assess their progress against high-level opposition.

For Heydarov, the immediate priority will be to compete effectively at his established weight and demonstrate that his preparations are progressing in the right direction. His decision provides clarity for the upcoming tournament, while his performances over the coming months will help determine how his weight-category strategy develops in the longer term.

DFA clarifies envoy’s Taiwan remarks on subsea cable

THE Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Monday clarified that the Philippines has no cooperation arrangement with Taiwan involving subsea cables or other critical undersea infrastructure, after remarks by a senior Philippine diplomat about deeper engagement with Taipei drew attention amid growing regional security concerns.

The clarification highlights a key distinction under Manila’s longstanding One China Policy. While the Philippines maintains unofficial economic, trade, cultural and technical ties with Taiwan, it does not have official political or diplomatic relations with the self-ruled island.

In a statement, the DFA reiterated its ‘longstanding and consistent One China Policy’ and stressed that ‘there is no cooperative arrangement with Taiwan on subsea cables or other critical undersea infrastructure.’

The department said discussions during an October 21 forum hosted by the Center for a New American Security (CNAS), a Washington-based think tank, focused on protecting critical undersea infrastructure, including telecommunications networks that support global communications, financial transactions and digital services.

‘The discussion at CNAS focused on the importance of protecting CUI, including through stronger public-private cooperation, particularly in the repair and recovery of damaged infrastructure,’ the DFA said.

‘It must be emphasized that the protection of CUI requires concerted efforts by all parties that benefit from these essential networks.’

The DFA also said there was ‘no mention of gray-zone activity cooperation with Taiwan.’

The statement followed remarks by Felipe F. Cariño III, deputy chief of mission at the Philippine Embassy in Washington, during a CNAS forum on protecting undersea cables and other critical infrastructure in the Indo-Pacific.

Cariño highlighted the strategic importance of the Bashi Channel, the waterway between northern Philippines and Taiwan through which major undersea communications links pass. He said the Philippines was ‘exploring deeper cooperation with our friends from Taiwan’ and described a ‘pragmatic and practical approach’ as necessary to protect mutual interests while remaining bound by the One China Policy.

Later, Cariño said the Philippines and Taiwan were exploring ‘practical and more pragmatic approaches in cooperation, including knowledge sharing and capacity building.’

When asked whether such cooperation could eventually involve measures to monitor or respond to disruptions affecting undersea cables, Cariño said discussions were continuing and some of the ideas raised during the forum could eventually take shape.

He also connected the issue to broader regional security concerns.

‘There have also been instances where our maritime capabilities were both on display and were cooperating,’ Cariño said. ‘We see this cooperation leading towards revealing and addressing the gray-zone issues in our part of the world.’

Cariño repeatedly emphasized public-private partnerships and capacity-building, areas generally associated with technical cooperation rather than formal government-to-government security arrangements.

The DFA’s clarification appears intended to underscore that distinction.

While Cariño discussed possible cooperation with Taiwan in areas such as knowledge-sharing, capacity-building and infrastructure resilience, the department stressed that no formal arrangement exists and that the forum did not involve discussions on an official security or political cooperation mechanism with Taipei.

The clarification also comes as Beijing closely watches Manila’s interactions with Taiwan. The Chinese Embassy in Manila previously expressed concern over what it described as recent Philippine moves involving Taiwan and urged the Philippines to strictly adhere to the One China principle.

Tinubu: I’m rewriting Nigeria’s economic story

President Bola Tinubu says his administration’s economic reforms are laying the foundation for sustainable growth, increased investment and improved living standards.

Tinubu, represented by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, spoke on Monday at the 32nd Nigerian Economic Summit in Abuja, where he defended the government’s decision to undertake difficult economic reforms.

‘We came to rewrite the story of a nation that has performed below its potential for far too long,’ he said, adding that the reforms were aimed at creating opportunities for jobseekers, farmers, manufacturers and entrepreneurs.

The President said Nigeria’s economy grew by 3.89 per cent in real terms in the first quarter of 2026, compared with 3.13 per cent in the same period last year.

He added that non-oil activities contributed 96.08 per cent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product, while capital importation rose to $10.37bn during the quarter, an increase of 83.83 per cent year-on-year.

Tinubu said his administration would continue to pursue policies to attract investment, improve electricity supply, strengthen businesses and boost productivity.

He, however, acknowledged that economic progress must translate into tangible benefits for Nigerians, insisting that the ultimate goal was to improve livelihoods rather than simply record favourable economic figures.

Earlier, United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed called for the consolidation of Nigeria’s economic reforms and better management of public expectations. She also praised the African Development Bank for prioritising development financing across the continent.

PDMO rejects all Domestic Dollar Bond bids; market says bid rates too high

The Public Debt Management Office (PDMO) has rejected all bids received at its Domestic Dollar Bond auction held on 23 October, with market sources indicating that demand was encouraging, but the rates bid were too high.

The issue was for $ 100 million, with the option of raising up to $ 300 million. ‘Pursuant to Section 6 of the Offer Document, which reserves the Issuer’s right to accept or reject any application, in whole or in part, the Issuer has decided not to accept any bids received under this auction,’ the PDMO said in its notice, giving no further details.

The fixed rate of interest payable on the bonds, which are US dollar-denominated debt securities issued in the domestic market, was to be determined through competitive bidding.

Market sources said the PDMO probably believed the bids did not factor in Fitch Ratings’ recent upgrade of Sri Lanka.

In September, Fitch upgraded Sri Lanka’s Long-Term Issuer Default Rating to ‘B-‘ from ‘CCC+’, with a Stable outlook. A higher rating typically lowers the risk premium investors demand over benchmark US Treasury yields, which together determine dollar bond pricing.

Given the availability of funds and current global uncertainties, the PDMO may be willing to wait before returning to the market, the sources said. Accepting costlier bids could also have set a higher benchmark for future foreign currency borrowing.

This was the second Domestic Dollar Bond issue since the debt crisis. In the first, in December 2025, the PDMO raised $ 50 million under a fixed-rate arrangement, recording firm demand for one- and two-year maturities. The one-year tranche drew $ 45.5 million in bids, of which $ 33 million was accepted at a weighted average fixed rate of 5.7%. The two-year tenor received $ 42.5 million in bids, with $ 17 million accepted at a weighted average rate of 6.1%. Only $ 1 million was bid for the three-year maturity, and no bids were accepted.

FROM LOCAL SOLUTIONS TO GLOBAL RECOGNITION | Villar Foundation marks more than two decades of environmental action

LAS PIÑAS CITY- From transforming household waste into fertilizers and school chairs to turning discarded coconut husks and waterlilies into livelihood opportunities, the Villar Foundation has spent more than two decades promoting community-based solutions to environmental problems.

Established by former Senate President Manny Villar and former Senator Cynthia Villar, the Foundation’s environmental initiatives demonstrate how proper waste management can help protect waterways, support agriculture, create jobs, and improve community life.

Among its flagship programs are the Sagip Ilog (Las Piñas-Zapote River Rehabilitation) and Riverdrive Projects, which combine river cleanup, waste management, and community participation. These initiatives have received recognition from local and international institutions for their contributions to environmental protection and sustainable development.

The Foundation’s awards include the UN-Habitat and Dubai International Award in 2006, the International Green Apple Award presented in London in 2009, the UN Water for Life Award in 2011, the DENR-NCR Kampeon ng Katubigan Award in 2018, the Gawad Taga-Ilog 2.0 in 2022, and the Energy Globe Award from Austria in 2022. In 2024, it also received recognition from the United Nations Association of the Philippines for its poverty alleviation efforts.

Turning Organic Waste into Fertilizer

Launched in 2002, the Las Piñas Kitchen Waste Composting Project addresses the growing volume of household and garden waste by converting biodegradable materials into organic fertilizer.

According to Foundation figures, its 73 composting facilities process approximately 73 tons of organic waste monthly (1 ton a day), reducing the volume of waste sent to landfills while producing organic fertilizer for urban gardens and agricultural activities. The program also helps the city save approximately ?300 million annually in waste disposal and management costs.

The initiative also supports household food production through seed distribution and the annual Urban Gardening and Cooking Festival, encouraging residents to grow their own vegetables and make productive use of available spaces.

The project won the Energy Globe Awards in 2022 for its contribution to environmental management.

Discarded Plastics Become School Chairs

In 2013, the Villar Foundation established a plastic recycling facility in Las Piñas to convert discarded soft plastics into school chairs.

The initiative addresses two concerns: plastic waste and the need for classroom furniture in public schools and learning institutions. The recycling program has also expanded to facilities in Iloilo and Cagayan de Oro, extending its reach to communities in the Visayas and Mindanao.

By giving discarded plastics a new purpose, the program promotes recycling while supporting educational facilities and creating opportunities for local employment.

Coconut Husks Provide Livelihoods

The Foundation’s Coco Coir Enterprise turns discarded coconut husks into useful products called coconets. The technology converts coconut fibers into materials used for slope protection, erosion control, and other infrastructure applications.

The project also provides livelihood opportunities for community members who process the fibers and manufacture the products. It demonstrates how agricultural waste can be transformed into a marketable resource while contributing to environmental protection.

Waterlilies Become Handicrafts

Waterlilies that grow excessively in waterways can obstruct water flow and contribute to flooding. Through its waterlily weaving project, the Villar Foundation turns harvested waterlilies into products such as baskets, mats, footwear, and fashion accessories.

billboards do the job socmed

The program trains community members, particularly women, to produce handicrafts that can be sold for additional household income.

The Foundation also promotes the use of waterlilies through its annual Waterlily Festival in Las Piñas, which features activities highlighting local creativity, culture, and environmental awareness.

Paper Recycling Completes the Waste Recovery Effort

Paper recovery is another component of the Foundation’s waste management approach. Through community collection and junk-shop networks, used paper is directed to recycling facilities instead of being mixed with general waste.

Collected paper is supplied to recycling partners, including Trust International Paper Corporation, for processing and reuse. This helps reduce landfill waste, conserve resources, and provide supplementary income to participating households.

Building Sustainable Communities

The Villar Foundation’s environmental programs show how waste management can be linked to livelihood development, food security, education, and waterway rehabilitation.

By converting organic waste into fertilizer, plastics into school chairs, coconut husks into coconets, waterlilies into handicrafts, and used paper into recyclable materials, the Foundation promotes a circular approach in which discarded materials are recovered and put to productive use.

More than two decades after the launch of its river rehabilitation initiatives, the Foundation continues to promote the role of community participation in environmental protection. Its experience in Las Piñas illustrates how locally developed solutions can address environmental concerns while creating economic opportunities for families.

The underlying principle is straightforward: waste need not end up in landfills or waterways. With proper systems, technology, and community involvement, it can become a resource that supports both environmental protection and sustainable livelihoods.

Herder Killed In Plateau Community

A herder identified as Umar Adamu Jagar was on Tuesday reportedly attacked and killed around Lamor community of Mangu local government area of Plateau state.

Herding community said the incident occurred when the deceased was on his way from Lamor to Gotkum communities in Mangu LGA.

Ibrahim Yusuf Babayo, State chairman of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), who confirmed the attack, condemned the incident, describing it as unacceptable.

MACBAN said, ‘The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Plateau State Chapter, strongly condemns the gruesome killing of Umar Adamu Jagar, who was reportedly ambushed and shot dead on the morning of 27th October 2027 at about 9:30 a.m. while travelling from Lamor to Gotkum in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State.

‘The deceased was attacked without any provocation and lost his life in the unfortunate incident. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, relatives, and the entire Fulani community over this painful loss. We pray that Almighty Allah (SWT) grants him Aljannatul Firdaus and gives his family the strength to bear this irreparable loss.

‘This latest killing is deeply disturbing and further raises serious concerns about the recurring attacks on innocent Fulani herders and travelers in parts of Plateau State. Such acts of violence threaten peaceful coexistence and undermine ongoing efforts to restore peace and stability in the state.’

Babayo further called on security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, the military, and other relevant authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident, identify those responsible, and ensure they are brought to justice.

‘We also urge all Fulani communities to remain calm, law-abiding, and to avoid any form of retaliation while allowing the security agencies to carry out their constitutional responsibilities,’ he said.

Spokesperson of Operation Enduring Peace, Captain Polycarp Auta, did not respond to inquiries regarding the incident from our correspondent as of press time.

UBA seeks jail for WEMPCO directors over ?61.45bn debt

United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc has asked a Lagos court to send nine people linked to Western Metal Products Co. (WEMPCO) to prison.

The bank alleges that they forced a court-appointed receiver out of the steel group’s Ogun State factory and the application is the latest step in UBA’s effort to recover N61.45 billion it says the industrial conglomerate owes.

The committal notice was filed at the Federal High Court and published in The Nation on Tuesday (Oct. 27) under an order allowing service by newspaper.

It accuses the respondents of ‘wilful, deliberate and orchestrated disobedience’ of an April 2 order and asks that they stay in prison until they comply.

Those named are Lewis Shui Noor Tung, Phillip Shui Che Tung, Alhaji M.A. Ola Yusuf, Tung Lawrence Blake, Alli Aare Hadji Tokunbo, Paul Shui Po Tung, Robert Tung, CL Ip and Taiwo Alli. All are listed at 18 Wempco Road, Ogba, Ikeja.

Alli is managing director of Nigerian Enamelware Co. Plc, which is listed on the Nigerian Exchange and is one of the 17 defendant companies. Robert Tung sits on its board.

On April 2, Justice Akintayo Aluko froze up to N61.45 billion of WEMPCO-linked funds across 27 banks and fintechs.

He also appointed Romeo Ese Michael receiver-manager over assets not already pledged under a 2019 credit agreement.

UBA’s affidavit says that after bailiffs handed over the Magboro/Ibafo plant, the respondents brought in thugs, broke the receiver’s locks and threatened his staff with ‘serious injury.’

It says they kept running the business and diverting its funds. None of the allegations has been tested in court, and WEMPCO’s response was not immediately available.

The court papers also show failed talks.

On June 22, WEMPCO’s lawyers at SimmonsCooper Partners, led by Dapo Akinosun, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, asked UBA for an urgent meeting. They proposed an interim standstill, a joint reconciliation of the accounts and ‘a structured framework for repayment.’

UBA’s lawyer, Temilolu Adamolekun, also a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, replied the next day. He questioned how the same company ‘deploying physical violence on ground and resorting to self-help’ could ask for dialogue, but agreed to meet.

The two sides met at UBA’s Marina head office on June 26 and agreed a joint inspection of the Magboro site for July 2. WEMPCO and its lawyers did not show up and have since ‘gone incommunicado,’ the affidavit says.

The bank says the plant has stayed under the respondents’ control since then.

MoneyCentral first reported the WEMPCO action on Oct. 16, when UBA won a judgment against Stallion Group using the same receiver.

Justice Akintayo Aluko on April 2 froze up to N61,445,695,993.76 of WEMPCO across 27 banks and fintechs and appointed the receiver-manager.

Under the April 2 order, banks and fintech platforms including Moniepoint, OPay and Kuda must disclose and hold any balances belonging to the defendants. The receiver’s powers also cover two Wärtsilä power generators ‘wherever they may be found.’

The other defendants include Lagos Oriental Hotel Ltd., United Rolling Mills Ltd., Wempco Steel Mill Co. and Prime Nigeria Tiles Co.

WEMPCO was founded by K.F. Tung, who first came to Nigeria in 1967.

The case tests whether Nigerian court receivers can actually take control of a borrower’s assets. A committal order against WEMPCO’s controlling shareholders would send a strong message to other chronic debtors.