Philippine politician charged with murder over Mindanao massacre
Updated
A member of the powerful southern Philippines Ampatuan family has been charged with murder over Monday's massacre on Mindanao island. Andal Ampatuan Junior, who until this week was an ally of President Gloria Arroyo, turned himself in yesterday, denying involvement in the brutal killings of members of a rival political family and a group of journalists. Ahead of the charge, more details were revealed about the 57 murders at an emotional press conference given by the Justice Secretary, Agnes Devanadera, in Manila. She said eyewitnesses allege that soldiers and police were among the group of around 100 gunmen responsible for the slaughter.
Hundreds of local police believed to be loyal to the Ampatuan clan have been detained; two local army chiefs have been relieved of their post, and thousands of troops have been sent to enforce a state of emergency across the region.
Rodolfo Biazon, chair of the Defence Committee in the Philippine Senate, says the central government was warned two months ago that Mindanao's political rivalries could explode into violence.
Presenter: Corinne Podger
Speaker: Senator Rodolfo Biazon, chairman of the Defence Committee, Philippine Senate
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