The Court of Appeals has acquitted alleged pork barrel scam mastermind Janet Lim-Napoles for the crime of serious illegal detention filed by whistleblower Benhur Luy. ADVERTISEMENTFor one to be convicted of serious illegal detention, the prosecutors must prove that the victim was deprived of his liberty, meaning there has to be actual confinement or restriction of the person. “The prosecution failed to satisfactorily explain the resistance of Benhur Luy to the rescue operation, which, to our mind negates the claim of serious illegal detention,” the CA said. They do not impart a clear and evident resolution to commit the crime of serious illegal detention or order to do the same,” the CA said. The appeals court said any evidence or proceeding against Lim would be moot and academic.

Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer May 08, 2017 06:22 UTC