More action needed to nab murderers

The Philippine authorities have been disgracefully slow to act in finding the criminals behind the horrifying massacre of more than 57 people this Monday.

Over 100 gunmen apparently abducted a convoy of aides and relatives of a local opposition politician, Esmael Mangudadatu, who was seeking nomination for governor in next year's elections in the province of Maguindanao in Mindanao island. Tens of people were shot and dumped in shallow graves, including a group of journalists travelling with the convoy. So far 57 bodies have been recovered but more are expected.

The governor of the province is a close political ally of President Gloria Arroyo and part of her ruling coalition. Yesterday his son was taken in for questioning, as the authorities finally reacted and also announced sweeping security measures. Ampatuan Jr denied being involved in the horrifying killings in his first public comment since the massacre.

The killing of one person is murder, and is a serious crime. The slaughter of tens of people is a disgusting outrage, and anyone found guilty of being involved cannot be allowed to avoid the most severe penalties. The authorities need to show more action in the case, and find out who committed the crimes and who was behind what has to have been an organised massacre.