Lorenzana revokes clearance of ex-Marawi mayor, sons

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana. FILE PHOTO/MALACANANG

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana has revoked the clearance issued to former Marawi City Mayor Omar Ali Solitario, who was included an arrest order issued under martial law in Mindanao, Presidential Peace Adviser Jesus Dureza said on Tuesday.

“After a speedy review made by the Department of National Defense on the basis of the inclusion of former Marawi Mayor Omar Solitario and his two (2) sons in the list to be arrested pursuant to the declaration of martial law, Secretary Delfin Lorenzana found basis for their being retained in the arrest list and ordered the cancellation of their temporary clearance,” he said in a statement.

Dureza, who earlier admitted recommending the clearance, explained that the clearance was issued in their efforts to facilitate the planned meeting with Lorenzana and allow them safe passage through martial law checkpoints.

In an order dated Aug. 16, Lorenzana told the military, the police and other law enforcement agencies that Ali and his sons had been removed from Arrest, Search and Seizure Orders (Assos) Nos. 1 and 2.

Solitario is included in the narco list of President Rodrigo Duterte. He and his sons are also in the martial law arrest order for their suspected links with Maute group.

“Based on the vehement objections of the AFP, PNP and local leaders in Marawi & Lanao Sur, I have recalled/cancelled the clearance I gave to Solitario and his two sons effective today. They are now subject to arrest,” Dureza said quoting Lorenzana.

The peace adviser also said they submit to the judgement call of Lorenzana. JE