PNoy: SAF killed Marwan, Mamasapano 'alternative version' not true

MANILA, Philippines - President Benigno Aquino III on Thursday presented the newest findings of the investigation into the Mamasapano clash which debunked the alternative version of the incident.

During his televised address in Malacañang, Aquino showed photos of slain Malaysian terror suspect Zulkifli bin Hir, alias Marwan, the subject of the Special Action Force (SAF) operation on January 25.

In one of the photos, a SAF trooper was seen holding the left hand of Marwan and in the act of severing a finger from his left hand.

Another photo showed the same SAF trooper before cutting off Marwan's finger, while one more photo showed the terrorist missing a finger.

Aquino said these photos disproved the alternative version of the incident that it was not the SAF troopers who neutralized the terrorist.

"What does the alternative narrative say? It was posited that one of Marwan’s companions killed him—the same one who cut off his finger and gave it to the SAF. But it is clear from the presentation today: the SAF were there; we can no longer doubt that it was the SAF who took Marwan's finger," Aquino said.

"This also means: All the other accounts about the alternative narrative are baseless, and consequently have no relevance," he added.

Aquino said the new photos were analyzed by the cybercrime division of the National Bureau of Investigation.

He quoted the agency's report which said that "Our forensic examiners concluded that the pictures are authentic and unaltered."

Aquino said those who floated the alternative version of the Mamasapano incident were trying to muddle the issue and were after the bounty imposed on Marwan.

With the alternative version debunked, Aquino said the government's next step is to hold into account those responsible for the murder of 44 SAF troopers.

"Now that the conversation about this alternative matter is done, the process of justice, especially for the fallen, can continue," he said.

Aquino said 90 individuals will be indicted.