Murder raps filed vs 90 suspects in Mamasapano clash

MANILA, Philippines — The National Bureau of Investigation and the National Prosecution Service on Tuesday filed charges of direct assault and murder against 90 individuals before the Department of Justice (DOJ) in connection with the Mamasapano incident.

Justice Secretary Leila de Lima said in a press conference that among the 90 identified respondents, 26 are members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, 12 are Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters and 52 are from People's Armed Groups.

The 90 suspects were identified by witnesses as those allegedly involved in the encounter in Mamasapano, Maguindanao, leading to the death of 44 Philippine National Police-Special Action Force commandos last January 25.

De Lima said that the DOJ would not yet name the respondents to prevent them from going into hiding. The DOJ will similarly not announce when the subpoenas against the 90 suspects will be released.

According to De Lima, the subpoenas will be sent by he Office of the Mayor of Mamasapano, Maguindanao.

President Benigno Aquino III earlier clarified that the "alternative version" of the Mamasapano incident is not true and confirmed that Malaysian terrorist Zulkifli Bin Hir, alias Marwan, was killed by the SAF.