NPA purging ranks, NORPPO head says

From the Visayan Daily Star (Aug 31): NPA purging ranks, NORPPO head says

Negros Oriental Provincial Police Office director, Senior Supt. Henry Biñas, said he believes there is purging of ranks in the rebel movement, particularly in the northern part of the province.

He said that as a result, uncooperative members, and those suspected of being penetration agents, are being liquidated due to what he believes as internal conflict going on with in the New People's Army.

This developed as charges are being finalized for filing against the shooters and masterminds in the ambush-killing of six police officers of Guihulngan City in July, he said.

Biñas said evidences are being reviewed, including the identity of one of the leaders, who graduated cum laude from a university in Iloilo.

Biñas is, however, saddened by reports that some witnesses are becoming uncooperative due to threats, while others received monetary offers to shut up. He refused to elaborate.

But he admitted Tuesday that police personnel in Guihulngan are directed to be extra cautious in responding to calls for assistance, especially in the hinterland barangays.

Biñas admitted that Guihulngan police cannot move alone without the help of the Philippine Army or the PNP's Special Action Force, who are better trained on the internal security operations, considering the treacherous manner that the NPA employs to target the police and other law enforcement operatives.

While it is not immediately easy to presume whether the motive for any killing is related to the drugs war or the terrorist movement, Biñas disclosed that he has directed the police chief of Guihulngan to coordinate with the Army or the SAF before responding to crime incidents, especially in the mountainous areas.

He admitted that shooting incidents in the mountainous areas of Guihulngan have gone up, although he didn't have available data yet.

He said the police are cautious when responding to calls, especially in the mountains, as anything can happen, such as the NPA terrorists using other people as “baits” by killing them so policemen will respond and in the process, the lawless elements can carry out attacks against them.

http://www.visayandailystar.com/2017/August/31/negor2.htm