DOJ Orders Investigation of Hacienda Luisita Incident
November 19, 2004
The Department of Justice today ordered the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to conduct an investigation into the reported violent dispersal of striking workers at the Hacienda Luisita in Tarlac on November 16, 2004 that resulted to the death of 7 persons.
In a memorandum sent to NBI Director Reynaldo Wycoco, Justice Secretary Raul Gonzalez directed the bureau to investigate the clash between law enforcers and the farm workers of the Hacienda Luisita owned by the Cojuangco family.
Gonzalez said the investigation by the bureau is necessary to allay any public suspicion that the investigation of the incident by the Philippine National Police (PNP) may be whitewashed because it involves its own personnel.
“The investigation should involve, among others, the reported involvement of agitators, who are not employees of Hacienda Lusista, as well as the issues which brought about the unfortunate incident,” Gonzalez added.
The Justice Secretary also directed the NBI to submit a report on said investigation.
|
