990AM: Ampatuan special treatment an ‘injustice’ to massacre kin, says lawyer

[jwplayer mediaid=”9803″ bufferlength=”10″]  MANILA, Philippines – The alleged special treatment for members of the Ampatuan clan who are in jail for the alleged gruesome killings in Maguindanao two years ago is perceived as an “injustice”, a lawyer for the victims’ families told Radyo Inquirer 990AM Friday.

“There is a perception of injustice in the case of the Ampatuans,” said Harry Roque who sought the help of Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo, a day after tension gripped the Camp Bagong Diwa detention center in Taguig City after it was discovered that members of the Ampatuan clan detained here were getting special treatment.

The disclosure by Maguindanao Governor Esmael Mangudadatu prompted him, Roque, and families of the victims to demand a visit to the Ampatuans’ cell, particularly that of Andal Ampatuan Sr., at the maximum security compound. But they were prevented from doing so although the Ampatuans’ lawyer was allowed to enter the premises.

“They are restraining us to conduct a surprise visit but the lawyers in defense of the suspects can enter and leave the jail like they are living there,” Roque said in Filipino.

“Mapait po maging biktima ng krimen sa ating bayan dahil hindi mo na alam kung saan kayo pupunta para sa tulong [It is tragic to be a victim of a national crime and not know where you will ask for help],” Roque said in a phone patch interview.

Roque said they would ask Robredo for permission to allow them to visit the Ampatuans’ jail.

Carissa Caraig, Contributor