TWO SUSPECTED New People’s Army (NPA) guerrillas were killed and two high-powered firearms recovered during a military encounter in the hinterlands of Sitio Dinakpan, Barangay Los Angeles, Butuan City, Agusan del Norte, on Jan. 28.
The 29th Infantry (Matatag) Battalion, under the 901st Infantry (Fight ’em) Brigade, 4th Infantry Diamond Division, engaged members of Platoon 1, Sub-Regional Sentro De Grabedad Westland, Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee, according to Lieutenant Colonel Mark S. Tabon, acting commanding officer of the 29IB.
The operation was launched following consistent reports from concerned residents about the presence of armed individuals conducting extortion activities in the area, said 1Lt. Rose Anne Mae Alegre, acting civil-military operations officer.
The soldiers clashed with approximately nine NPA members, resulting in the deaths of two rebels. The identities of the deceased are still being determined.
The recovered firearms and “terrorist documents with high intel value” were turned over to authorities. The bodies of the slain rebels were also handed over to local officials for proper disposition.
“Let this serve as a message to those who continue to spread violence and fear: choose peace, lay down your arms, avail of the government’s peaceful surrender package, and live freely with your families,” Tabon said.
“Those who endanger our people’s safety will be met with unwavering resolve. Rest assured, we promote peace and prosperity for those who want it,” the battalion commander further said.
Photo courtesy of 29th Infantry Battalion
