Airtight cases to be filed vs rioters, financiers

The Philippine National Police (PNP) will file airtight cases against the people who sowed violence during the protests.

- CHRISTINE BOTON

Probers are gathering strong evidence against perpetrators of attacks at Ayala Bridge and Don Chino Roces Bridge along Mendiola street, acting PNP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said yesterday.

Around 95 police officers were reportedly injured.

Of the 216 people arrested, Nartatez said 65 were children in conflict with the law, aged 15 to 17, while 24 were aged 14 and below.

“Those who sponsored the rally at Ayala are not legitimate protesters. They had the motive of trying to topple the government and even pass through Ayala Bridge to reach Malacañang. Whoever sponsored these young people will be investigated and we will make sure they are held accountable,” Northern Police District director Brig. Gen. Jerry Protacio said.

Meanwhile, three people are being investigated for allegedly instigating violence during Sunday’s anti-corruption protests, Manila Mayor Isko Moreno said yesterday.