CPP-NPA leaders undergo inquest proceedings at PNP

MANILA, Philippines - The two highest ranking officers of the Communist Party of the Philippines- New People's Army underwent inquest proceedings at the Philippine National Police headquarters in Camp Crame, Quezon City on Monday.

Reports said that Benito Tiamzon, head of the CPP-NPA; and Wilma Austria, who heads the CPP’s national finance committee; were brought to the PNP multi-purpose hall from the PNP Custodial Center to be indicted for illegal possession of firearms, ammunition and explosives.

The couple , both in orange detainee shirt, were handcuffed behind their backs when escorted to the venue, reports added.

Lawyers of the two said they do not acknowledge the inquest proceedings at PNP headquarters, noting that they should be indicted at the Prosecutors Office.

Unless there is a court order to transfer the venue of the inquest, the authorities should bring them to the Prosecutors' office,  the lawyers said.

Counsels of the communist leaders also said that there were no firearms or explosives when their clients were nabbed on Saturday in Cebu.

The couple was arrested by police and military forces on Saturday in Aloguinsan, Cebu.