A SUSPECTED member of the New People’s Army (NPA) was killed, and two high-powered rifles were recovered during a 30-minute gun battle between government troops and insurgents on March 4, 2025, in Sitio Sta. Fe, Barangay Magsaysay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur.
Soldiers from the 44th Division Reconnaissance Company, 4th Division Reconnaissance Battalion, operating under the 401st Infantry “Unite N’ Fight” Brigade, engaged the rebels after receiving reports of extortion and disruptive activities in the area, according to Capt. Arc Jason, the Civil-Military Operation officer of 401st Infantry Brigade.
The military identified the slain rebel as Arnel Dator, also known as “Darwin,” believed to be a member of the Sub-Regional Sentro de Gravidad Southland, North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee.
Military personnel recovered an M16 rifle, an AR18 rifle, backpacks, a bandolier, and subversive documents from the scene. The body of the deceased was turned over to the Prosperidad local government for processing.
“This operation reflects our commitment to safeguarding our communities and fostering a secure environment for progress,” stated Colonel Emil Cruz, Acting Commander of the 401st Infantry Brigade.
“We urge the remaining NPA members to lay down their arms and return to peaceful lives,” Cruz said.
Following the encounter, the 401st Brigade conducted civil-military operations, including loudspeaker broadcasts and community dialogues, to reassure residents and distribute information.
Photos courtesy of 401st Infantry Brigade
