PNP checks real identity of Maguindanao massacre suspect

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine National Police (PNP) is investigating the claim of a suspect in the Maguindanao massacre that he was arrested by mistake and the real suspect was a man arrested for illegal possession of explosives in 2012.

In a letter to the Quezon City Regional Trial Court Branch 221, PNP Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) director Francisco Uyami said they are conducting an investigation on the claims of suspect Jun Aliman that he was not the Sahid Guiamadel charged for the massacre.

Uyami said Aliman pointed out that a certain Arnel Abdullah – who was arrested in Maguindanao on Feb. 12, 2012 for illegal possession of explosive – was the real Guiamadel.

The CIDG chief said they will need 20 days, or until Nov. 7, to conclude its investigation. He asked for the court’s “indulgence” and promised to forward the result of the investigation.

Judge Jocelyn Solis-Reyes, in an order dated Oct. 21, noted the request of the CIDG chief.

Aliman is one of the only two remaining arrested suspects who have yet to be arraigned for the initial 57 counts of murder filed in connection with the Nov. 23, 2009 incident.

The other is Talembo Masukat, who is claiming to be former councilor Talembo Abdulkahar.