THE Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 10 in Davao City ordered the arrest of retired policeman Arturo Lascañas who earlier claimed as handler of the Davao Death Squad (DDS) and implicated President Rodrigo Duterte behind the killings.
Lascañas was earlier charged with murder and two counts of frustrated murder in connection with the attacks that led to the death of radio broadcaster Juan "Jun" Pajadora Pala last September 6, 2003 while he was on his way home.
Three arrest warrants were issued by Judge Retrina Fuentes of the RTC Branch 10. The head of the office to whom the arrest warrants were delivered for execution shall cause the warrant to be executed within 10 days from receipt.
The bond for the release of the latter in the three cases is fixed at no bail.
The three cases against Lascañas were filed on May 29, and were received by the court June 1, Thursday afternoon. Lascañas testified before the Senate hearing on March 6 this year, admitting that he is responsible for the killing of Jun.
This admission was likewise reduced into an affidavit dated February 19. Documents were attached to the complaint.
In a five-page resolution that was approved May 25, the prosecutor's office found probable cause to charge Lascañas, former Davao City Police Office (DCPO) member, following the complaint filed by Louise Aguirre Pala, wife of Jun.
A subpoena was issued by the prosecutor’s office on March 29 for the accused to submit his counter-affidavit and countervailing evidence but the return of the subpoena showed Lascañas is no longer residing at the same address.
Reports said Lascañas left the country last April 8, following the threats that a complaint will be filed against him.
The accused earlier revealed the existence of the DDS and his being a member of it before the Senate hearing on March 6.
The prosecution said his declaration during the Senate hearing in claiming responsibility over the assassination of the radio announcer, through his affidavit and testimony, constitutes extrajudicial confession. (ICT)