Tense situation characterized one point of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee’s investigation into the alleged bribery scandal involving Bureau of Immigration (BI) officials and business tycoon Jack Lam.
This was when committee chairman Richard Gordon threatened to cite former BI Deputy Commissioner Michael Robles in contempt.
Gordon’s statement arose from Robles’ refusal to respond to more questions from the senator, as the probe continued on Thursday.
“I invoke my right (against self-incrimination). We have been humiliated here, the way questions are being asked,” Robles said.
“I will hold you in contempt. I will lock you up here,” Gordon threatened.
“Sergeant-at-arms!” Gordon hollered.
“I move for reconsideration,” Robles quickly uttered, as operatives from the Office of the Sergeant-at-Arms (OSAA) appeared at the hearing room, seeming to be getting ready to arrest Robles.
“I just called the sergeant-at-arms,” Gordon responded to Robles.
Gordon held back on ordering the detention of Robles.
Then, the senator proceeded to enumerate the result of his research into the events, including meetings, that led to the P 50-million bribery case.
Gordon continued grilling officials led by Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre, BI Commissioner Jaime Morente, former BI Deputy Commissioners Robles and Al Argosino and Former BI Intelligence Chief Charles Calima.
At another point when Robles again invoked his right against self-incrimination, Gordon said Robles would be held in contempt and the former BI deputy commissioner would be sent to Pasay City Jail.