Mystery Deepens As Zaldy Co Reportedly Seeks Refuge in France
ZALDY CO – The search for Zaldy Co intensifies as reports point to his presence in France, raising questions about international law and jurisdiction.
The Philippine government remains firm in its belief that former lawmaker Zaldy Co is currently in France, allegedly evading arrest as a fugitive. Authorities say there are strong indications that Co is staying in the European country, possibly in Paris, and may even have assets there.
According to the Philippine Embassy, while there is convincing information pointing to his presence in France, the government faces significant limitations in taking action. Embassy officials emphasized that they do not have the authority to investigate or arrest Co within French territory, as such actions would violate international law and national sovereignty.
Philippine Ambassador to France Eduardo de Vega clarified that despite the government’s confidence, there has been no confirmed sighting of Co in the country. However, intelligence reports suggest that he may be in France and could be seeking asylum.
“Although, as the Secretary said, we have strong reason to believe he’s here… but he’s not been sighted there either,” said De Vega.
The ambassador further explained that Philippine officials are prohibited from conducting surveillance operations abroad. Any attempt to track or monitor Co independently would breach French sovereignty and international protocols.
“We cannot act like we were private investigators here… we would be infringing on the sovereignty of France,” he added.
De Vega also noted that all actions must go through proper legal channels, particularly with the cooperation of French authorities. Even with an existing warrant of arrest, the Philippine government cannot act unilaterally.
“Although, may warrant of arrest… So, it has to be done through the host government, maybe through Interpol,” he continued.
He stressed that even if embassy personnel or members of the Filipino community were to encounter Co, they would still have no legal power to detain him.
Additionally, De Vega mentioned that Co may have filed for asylum, which would further complicate the situation. Any legal proceedings involving the former lawmaker would have to follow the judicial processes of France, making immediate action unlikely.
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