SC affirming validity of De Lima’s arrest ‘vindicating,’ says ex-DOJ chief Aguirre

The Supreme Court's (SC) denial of detained Senator Leila de Lima's appeal against her arrest has "vindicated" the Department of Justice (DOJ) from allegations of persecution, its former chief said on Thursday.

Resigned Justice secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II welcomed the SC's affirmation of its earlier decision upholding the constitutionality of De Lima's arrest, adding the DOJ's efforts in the case are "now paying off."

"The Supreme Court's decision on the MR (motion for reconsideration) of Senator Leila De Lima affirmed what we knew all along. Her arrest on drug charges indeed has a legal leg to stand on," Aguirre said in a statement.

"With the SC decision, we have proven that this case is one of rightful prosecution and not of political persecution as claimed by some," he added.

De Lima was prosecuted and arrested over drug-related charges during Aguirre's term at the DOJ.

On Wednesday, the SC Public Information Office made public a notice of an April 17 decision which confirmed reports that the high court had thrown out "with finality" De Lima's appeal challenging the legality of her arrest.

The SC said De Lima's pleading raised no arguments substantial enough to warrant the reversal of its assailed October ruling.

"No further pleadings will be entertained," the SC held.

In his statement, Aguirre called for respect for the high court's decision.

"Let this serve as a warning to all those who deal in drugs and who profit from it. The Duterte administration is serious as it is relentless," he said.

De Lima is accused of involvement in the illegal drug trade in the national penitentiary while she was Justice secretary. — RSJ, GMA News