Filtered By: Topstories
News

PNP: Video of alleged MNLF use of human shields could serve as evidence


The Philippine National Police (PNP) may be able to use in prosecution a video showing what could be scenes of when the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) allegedly used human shields during their armed incursion in Zamboanga City.
 
In a report by Ian Cruz on GMA News' "24 Oras" newscast on October 22, PNP spokesman Sr. Supt. Reuben Theodore Sindac said the video is "revealing" and if verified to be "legit" could be used to prosecute the MNLF members in government custody.
 
The video, which became viral on Facebook and other social networking sites, showed civilians huddled together for protection as gunshots were fired. Several of them waved white flags while others, including children, crouched beside a jeep.
 
In the video, men in camouflage, said to be MNLF forces, took cover at nearby buildings. 
 
The video also showed a bazooka being fired near where the civilians were.
 
“Nakikita mo sa video sila 'yung nakatago sa KGK Building, nakatago sa mosque. Itong pag-wave ng flag is to stop AFP operations against them. By using the civilians as shields, alam nila na ang iyong kasundaluhan ay hindi puputok laban sa mga civilians,” said Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala, AFP's Public Affairs Office chief.
 
Charges of rebellion and violation of the International Humanitarian Law (Republic Act 9851) were filed against MNLF Chairman Nur Misuari, Commander Habier Malik and 60 others for the assault on Zamboanga City. 
 
A Zamboanga City court issued arrest warrants against Misuari and Malik on October 9.
 
Sec. Leila de Lima of the DOJ said that careful scrutiny is needed to verify the validity and news of the video.
 
MNLF spokesperson Absalom Cerveza has yet to see the video, but said that it was impossible for the group to have shot it.
 
“To me, it does not make sense na magdala ka ng hostage, lalabas ka doon and 6,000 sundalo ang nandoon na dadatnan mo eh. That is insanity,” said Cerveza.
 
The death toll by Sept. 28 counted 167 slain and 247 arrested MNLF rebels, while 18 soldiers were killed in action. — Rie Takumi/ELR/KG, GMA News
LOADING CONTENT