Case Summary (G.R. No. 22013)
Facts of the Case
In 1921, within the jurisdiction of the Province of Jolo, Maharajah Mahang and others formed brigand groups and engaged in activities that are classified as brigandage under the law. The appeal revolves around Hassan's alleged membership in the brigand party led by Mahang, as well as his participation in the associated robberies and related acts.
Evidence of Participation
Multiple witnesses testified about Hassan's involvement with Mahang and the brigands. A convicted member of the gang, Tabong, stated that Hassan was seen with Mahang and swore to partake in violent acts, including robbery and murder against soldiers. Another witness, Among, corroborated this by stating he accompanied the brigands. Moreover, Lieutenant Ballesteros of the Constabulary testified to observing Hassan with Mahang during confrontations against law enforcement, which was further supported by Corporal Felix Habalo's testimony.
Corroboration of Testimonies
Hassan's participation was further substantiated by Lieutenant Sevilla's accounts of prior encounters with him and the brigands. Notably, the self-incriminating statements made by Hassan himself during judicial proceedings also contributed to the establishment of his guilt.
Legal Analysis
The decision highlighted that the evidence presented sufficiently proved Hassan's involvement in brigandage beyond a reasonable doubt. Under Section 2 of Act No. 518, once the membership in the group is established, there is no need to prove the commission of specific criminal acts by each individual member. This provision aligns with the context of the law governing brigandage, under which conspiracy among three or more individuals committing acts of robbery is punishable.
Conclusion
The appellate court found no me
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Case Background
- The case involves Moro Hassan, who was convicted along with co-defendants of the crime of brigandage by the Court of First Instance of Jolo.
- Each defendant was sentenced to twenty years of imprisonment, ordered to return stolen items or pay their value, and was tasked with covering the costs of the case.
- The appellant contested the judgment, asserting errors in the findings of the trial judge regarding his alleged participation in brigandage.
Allegations Against the Appellant
- The appellant was accused of being a member of a band led by Maharajah Mahang, which was involved in various criminal acts, including robbery and violence.
- Evidence against Hassan included testimony from a convicted member of the band, Tabong, who claimed to have seen Hassan in Bawisan participating in activities with Mahang's group.
- Tabong testified that Hassan had sworn to accompany Mahang in committing robberies and opposing the establishment of schools.