Kalinaw News: 23rd Infantry Battalion captures 1 NPA, seizes high-powered firearm in Agusan del Norte clash

Posted to Kalinaw News (May 5, 2021): 23rd Infantry Battalion captures 1 NPA, seizes high-powered firearm in Agusan del Norte clash



BUENAVISTA, Agusan del Norte – The troops of 23rd Infantry “Masigasig” Battalion (23IB) captured an NPA member, and seized firearm and ammunitions in an encounter on April 30, 2021, in a remote area of Barangay Consorcia, Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte.

The clash transpired while the troops from 23IB were conducting combat clearing operations in the said area. The government forces encountered at least 20 armed NPA rebels who immediately retreated from their position after the 10-minute gun battle.

One NPA member later identified as Jesar Jumawan Sumonod, alias BOK/J5, a member of SRSDG SAGAY, NCMRC was captured by the troops after the gunfight. The soldiers also recovered one (1) Cal. 5.56mm; M16 rifle with scope; two (2) backpacks containing personal belongings; 300-meter electrical wire, and assorted live ammunitions.

Traces of heavy bloodstains were also visible along the withdrawal route which indicates that there were NPA rebels who suffered severe wounds.

Moreover, the captured NPA member was turned over to the Las Nieves Municipal Police Station for the filing of appropriate criminal charges.

It can be recalled that in the morning of the same day, the 23IB, together with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Las Nieves, the Provincial Government of Agusan del Norte, the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the members of the council of Barangay Consorcia welcomed the surrender of 14 Milisya ng Bayan (MBs) and the withdrawal of support of 325 members of Underground Mass Organizations (UGMOs) in a pledge of allegiance ceremony held in Barangay Consorcia.

Lt. Col. Julius Cesar C Paulo, Commander 23IB, expressed gratitude to the residents for the cooperation they manifested in the efforts to finally end the local communist armed conflict. He also made an assurance of the continued support of the 23IB, especially on security, to protect the lives and properties of the innocent civilians in the area.

He then asked the remaining NPA members in the area to lay down their arms, return to the mainstream society, and live peacefully with their families.

“Stop destroying the lives of the youth, victimizing and recruiting them to be part of your senseless cause. This is the best time to make a change. Let us try to be united and live harmoniously,” Lt. Col. Paulo said.

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