Kalinaw News: 2 CPP-NPA members killed; high-powered firearms seized in Samar clash

Posted to Kalinaw News (Apr 16, 2023): 2 CPP-NPA members killed; high-powered firearms seized in Samar clash

CAMP LUKBAN, CATBALOGAN CITY, SAMAR – Two members of the Communist Party of the Philippines- New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) were killed while assorted war materials were seized during an encounter in Basey, Samar, Friday afternoon on April 14, 2023.

The troops of the 46th Infantry Battalion and 63rd Infantry Battalion clashed with more or less 17 Communist NPA Terrorists (CNTs) belonging to Bugsok Platoon, Sub-Regional Committee SESAME after a concerned citizen reported the presence of an armed group in Barangay Mabini, Basey, Samar.

The 20-minute firefight resulted to the death of two unidentified male CPP-NPA members and the recovery of one M16 rifle, two M653 rifles, assorted magazines and ammunition, three bandoliers, and other personal items.

In his statement, Brigadier General Lenart Lelina, the Commander of the 801st Infantry Brigade, encouraged the remaining members of the CNTs to consider laying down their arms and return to the folds of the law as the Army will continue its offensive operation against the Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs).

“Based sa tracks nila (CPP-NPA) na may mga dugo, possible na may mga wounded silang kasama. Ako po ay umaapela sa kanila na sumuko na at itigil ang walang saysay na armadong pakikibaka. It is never too late for you to lay down your arms and be with your families who are waiting for your return. The government has prepared programs and services to help you start a new,” said Brig. Gen. Lelina.

Meanwhile, Major General Camilo Ligayo, the Commander of the 8th Infantry Division lauded the troops for their efforts of bringing peace to Samar. He also thanked the citizens who gave information which is vital to the successful operation.

“Let us continue engaging the community from the Barangay down to Sitios, to build a strong relationship with the communities and help them cooperate with the government and the armed forces. We, the government troops are willing to extend our hand to those CPP-NPA members who are willing to surrender,” Maj. Gen Ligayo added.

[Kalinaw News is the official online source of information on the pursuit for peace in the Philippines This website is a property of the Civil-Military Operations Regiment, Philippine Army located at Lawton Avenue, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.]

https://www.kalinawnews.com/2-cpp-npa-members-killed-high-powered-firearms-seized-in-samar-clash/