Two police officers from the Philippine National Police, Lt. Nadame Malang and Maj. Reynaldo Pañebe Jr., have been relieved of their duties following allegations of misconduct in the ongoing investigation into the disappearance of at least 34 cockfight enthusiasts, referred to as 'sabungeros'. Their dismissal on May 20 was prompted by accusations that they facilitated unauthorized meetings between the families of the missing individuals and police officers currently detained in connection with the case. The families of the victims reported these allegations to the National Police Commission, leading to the administrative case against the officers. In a press briefing, HPG director Brig. Gen. Rommel Batangan confirmed that Malang had allowed three complainants access to the custodial center but clarified that he did not accompany them inside. The PNP spokesperson, Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño, emphasized that the relief was a procedural move to prevent interference with the investigation. The case involves at least 22 individuals, including police officers and gambling tycoon Atong Ang, who is accused of orchestrating the kidnappings. A whistleblower has alleged that Ang ordered the kidnappings due to cheating in cockfighting games, and there are claims that some complainants were bribed to withdraw their charges.