De Lima: NFA chief’s resignation won’t affect criminal investigation
Justice Secretary Leila De Lima. RYAN LEAGOGO/INQUIRER.net FILE PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines — Justice Secretary Leila De Lima on Friday said investigation into the possible criminal liability of National Food Authority (NFA) administrator Arthur Juan would continue despite his resignation.
“NBI’s probe into the alleged extortion continues despite such resignation,” De Lima said in a text message to reporters.
“NBI will still submit its final report with recommendations in due time. Remember that the act complained of or as alleged by Mr. Soliman, if verified to be true, constitutes a criminal offense. Hence, resignation of the alleged perpetrator would not serve to exculpate him from crimjnal liability,” she further said.
Despite reports that the NBI has recommended the filing of a graft case against Juan, De Lima insisted that the report has yet to be completed.
Juan resigned from office citing health reasons, a few days after a leaked NBI report revealed a recommendation to file a graft case against him.
Juan is accused of extorting P15 million from rice trader Jomerito “Jojo” Soliman whose warehouse was raided by authorities last July.
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