NPA killed, high-powered firearms recovered in Surigao Norte clash

From the Philippine Information Agency (Aug 4, 2020): NPA killed, high-powered firearms recovered in Surigao Norte clash (By 901st Infantry Brigade, PA)

PLACER, Surigao del Norte, Aug. 4 -- A New People’s Army (NPA) terrorist was killed and four high-powered firearms were recovered by operating troops of the 30th Infantry (Fight On) Battalion during an encounter with the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) in Barangay Camp Edward, Alegria, this province on July 20.

Based on the report, civilians tipped off to the operating government troops regarding the presence of fully armed CTG in the area. The firefight lasted for about 30 minutes and the responding soldiers were able to seize a hideout occupied by an estimated 30 members of the Guerilla Front, North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee.

Aside from the unidentified slain body, three AK47s and one M16 rifle were also retrieved from the encounter site while two soldiers were slightly injured during the clash.

In his statement, Col. George L. Banzon, commander of the 901st Infantry Brigade, expressed his gratitude to the community for providing timely information leading to the successful operation.

He also stressed that the 901st Infantry Brigade will continue to intensify focus military operations to flush those who refuse to surrender and abandon their armed struggle.

Col. Banzon also called on the members of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP)-NPA to give peace a chance by going back to the folds of the law and avail the programs being offered by the government for them live normal lives.

On the other hand, he reiterated his statements when he took over the Brigade that he will not hesitate to use full military might to protect the people and the community against those who continue to pursue their twisted ideology and sow terror.

“We express our sincerest thanks to the concerned citizens who provided us with accurate information to prevent the CTG from their terroristic activities. Indeed, it was a clear indication that the local communities are already fed up with their wrongdoings. Our operation will continue and we will not stop in our quest to ensure the safety and security of the communities that were terrorized by these communist armed group. I urge the members of the communist terrorist group to lay down their arms and live a peaceful life. Using violence to impose will on the peace loving people have no place in our civilized society,” he said.

The troops are still conducting follow-up operations to go after the retreating armed terrorists. (Cpt. Joash U. Pramis, CMO Officer, 901st Bde, 9ID, PA/VLG/PIA-Surigao del Norte)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1049167