DWDD: EXTORTION ATTEMPT | 76 families evacuate in Sarangani after encounter

From DWDD AFP Civil Relations Service Radio Website (Apr 5): EXTORTION ATTEMPT  |  76 families evacuate in Sarangani after encounter

ALABEL, Sarangani (DWDD) – A total of 72 families were forced to evacuate after troops from the 73^rd Infantry Battalion encountered several members of the terrorist New People’s Army (NPA) Front Committee 71 in Barangay Tokawal, Alabel, Sarangani.

   

In an interview by DWDD with Capt Jerry Lamosao, 10ID Public Affairs officer, 12 families were caught in the crossfire but were immediately rescued by responding soldiers, while another 60 families were forced to evacuate after hearing gunshots.

The Sarangani Police Provincial Mobile Force also conducted checkpoints and monitored the situation of the evacuees. Local Government authorities immediately provided relief packs to the affected families while some of the victims were subjected to stress debriefing by social workers.

Troops are conducting pursuit operations. They are also verifying reports that the enemy sustained casualties during the encounter. Troops were able to recover a bag containing an Improvised Explosive Device.

Meanwhile, a soldier was reportedly wounded in the encounter and is now recovering.

Last week, the military monitored the plans of the Communist Terrorist to conduct extortion activities in the area. AES

http://dwdd.com.ph/2018/04/05/extortion-attempt-76-families-evacuate-in-sarangani-after-encounter/