Purisima did not intend to disobey Aquino—lawyer
MANILA, Philippines – Former Philippine National Police Director General Alan Purisima had no intention of disobeying President Benigno Aquino III, his lawyer said Monday.
Atty. Kristoffer James Purisima pointed out that Purisima was not even aware of when Operation Exodus, also known as the Mamasapano operation, was scheduled to be implemented.
“He was informed only at 5:45 a.m. on January 25, not even time on target but much after the fact,” the lawyer told media.
“He was informed when assistance was already needed. It was PDG Purisima’s plan to inform OICPNP (Leonardo Espina) and CSAFP (Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr.) upon knowing that the PNP SAF (Special Action Force) will already jump off for the mission, in compliance with the order of the President,” he explained.
The statement came after Aquino told the Philippine Daily Inquirer that he was disappointed with the people he trusted – Purisima and relieved SAF commander Getulio Napeñas.
Aquino claimed that he was misled into believing that the operation, which resulted in the deaths of 44 policemen, 18 Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) fighters and five civilians, went according to plan.
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