SC lauds PNP for arrest of suspect in judge’s slay

Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno. INQUIRER.net File Photo

MANILA, Philippines—Supreme Court Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno on Monday lauded the Philippine National Police (PNP) for the arrest of the suspected gunman that killed Zamboanga City Branch 14 Presiding Judge Renerio Estacio.

“On behalf of the judiciary and the family of the late Judge Estacio, [we] wish to express [our] appreciation to the elements of the Tetuan and Zamboanga City police for the speedy action that led to the apprehension of the suspect,” Sereno said in a statement.

“The arrest of the suspect in the killing of Judge Estacio must now lead to his prosecution and trial, with all due regard given to the suspect’s constitutional rights,” Sereno said.

The police arrested Mohamad Alkhalidz Paradji Amisali last Sunday by operatives of the Zamboanga police. Witnesses have positively identified the suspect as the one who shot the judge last Feb. 28.