(Manila, Philippines) Seems that just about everyone here is still talking about last month’s hostage rescue debacle that ended in the death of eight Hong Kong tourists. The incident investigation review committee (IIRC) has issued its 83-page report and it’s currently being studied by President Aquino. Look for him to release the full report later this week after the Chinese government reviews it.
Some details have already leaked out including the IIRC’s recommendation that 10 people be held liable for the botched rescue (and possibly prosecuted) including members of the media.
Should members of the media be prosecuted for the judgment errors of government officials and those directing the police SWAT team? Perhaps not, but maybe for their own actions. Some members of the fourth estate may have gotten in the way as police tried to do their job. Also, one radio reporter apparently tied up the hostage taker’s phone line--conducting a live interview with him in the midst of the incident. As a result, police may have been delayed in efforts to negotiate an end to the crisis and the reporter’s tone and questions may have possibly inflamed the disgruntled former policeman.
Should members of the media--in their zeal to “get the story” be held accountable if their efforts obstruct the execution of justice or lead to the death of the innocent? Remember Princess Diana's fatal car accident as she was being chased by paparazzi in Paris?
What do you think?
While you contemplate it, view this You Tube link to video of the tragic ending of the Philippine hostage crisis of August 23rd: