Philippine president vows "heads will roll" following botched hostage rescue attempt

Philippine President Benigno Aquino III will not spare anyone found responsible for the botched hostage rescue operation.

Presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda said Monday Aquino had promised that "heads will roll" following the hostage crisis in Manila that led to the death of eight tourists from Hong Kong on August 23.

"Let's wait for the report of the investigation committee to come out and it will be submitted to the President, and the President will study the recommendations," Lacierda told a press briefing.

Lacierda is referring to the Internal Investigation and Review Committee (IIRC) led by Justice Secretary Leila de Lima and tasked to probe how the hostage crisis was mishandled. It is conducting several hearings this week to listen to testimonies by witnesses and members of the negotiating team.

Lacierda said that the ongoing investigation would prove the seriousness of the Aquino administration in making those accountable pay for their grave mistakes.

Source: Xinhua