NPA rebel wanted for murder nabbed in Surigao

From the Manila Bulletin (May 22, 2023): NPA rebel wanted for murder nabbed in Surigao (By MIKE CRISMUNDO)

CAMP RAFAEL C. RODRIGUEZ, Butuan City – Police arrested a New People’s Army rebel wanted for murder in Barangay Diatagon, Lianga, Surigao del Sur on Friday, May 19.

Police Regional Office-13 Director Brig. Gen. Pablo G. Labra II identified the suspect as Joel Belandres, alias “Abarka,” 51.

Labra said intensive police work led to the downfall of the suspect listed as the Caraga region’s top most wanted person. “Through close follow-up and surveillance of our operating units, this wanted person was finally arrested,” he said.

The PRO-13 chief said Belandres faces three counts of murder with no bail bond recommended; five counts of frustrated murder with fixed bail amounting to P200,000 each, and attempted murder with recommended bail amounting to P120,000.

Belandres’ warrant of arrest was issued by the Regional Trial Court, Branch 28, 11th Judicial Region, Lianga, Surigao del Sur.

The suspect was a member of the Weakened Guerilla Front 19, Sub-Regional Sentro de Grabidad (SRSDG), Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee (NEMRC).

He was allegedly involved in some atrocities in the region, including the attack that wounded of Armed Forces of the Philippine and Civilian Active Auxiliary (CAA) members in Sitio Panagatan, Baeangay Diatagon, Lianga on Oct. 31, 2020.

Labra lauded arresting units for apprehending the suspect.

“I commend the dedication and effort of our operatives in hunting down the suspect,” he said. “We exerted extra efforts in arresting him to ensure that justice will be served to the victims.”

https://mb.com.ph/2023/5/22/npa-rebel-wanted-for-murder-nabbed-in-surigao