THE Department of Justice (DOJ) clarified on Friday, April 24, that former Ako Bicol Representative Zaldy Co is “not technically arrested,” though his freedom of movement remains limited while he is under the jurisdiction of authorities in the Czech Republic.
Justice Spokesperson Atty. Polo Martinez provided this explanation to set the record straight regarding the status of the former lawmaker, who was taken into custody by foreign officials recently.
Martinez offered a simple comparison to help the public understand the situation. “For analogy, it is similar to when a person arrives at an airport and immigration officers deny them entry or refuse them admission. Technically, the individual is not placed under formal arrest, but there is still a certain level of restriction or deprivation of liberty,” he said. The DOJ official confirmed that an official law enforcement action took place against Co in the country last week, noting that this fact has been fully verified and is no longer subject to dispute.
As of the latest update received by the department, Martinez stated that Co remains within the legal authority and control of Czech authorities. “Our most recent report confirms that he is still under their jurisdiction and subject to their regulations and processes,” he added, emphasizing that the situation continues to be monitored closely by Philippine officials handling the matter.
Meanwhile, Malacañang affirmed that there is no inconsistency between the DOJ’s latest statement and the remarks previously made by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. “What the President and the justice secretary said was clear and consistent. The chief executive never used the word ‘arrest’; he only stated that Co is in the custody of Czech authorities due to incomplete or improper travel documents.
He was held because of issues related to immigration requirements,” explained Palace Press Officer Claire Castro. This clarification aligns with the President’s earlier announcement that Co was detained in Prague after entering the country without the necessary paperwork, placing him under the care and supervision of local authorities.
