A tip-off from Agusan del Norte villagers led government troops to the site of an arms cache, mostly of high-powered firearms and bomb-making materials belonging to the communist New People’s Army (NPA), a military official said today.
Army’s 29th Infantry Battalion Civil-Military Operations Officer 2nd Lieutenant Rose Ann Mae Cordova said the troops discovered four high-powered firearms and an improvised explosive device in the hinterland village of Sitio Inayao, Barangay Bangonay, Jabonga, Agusan del Norte on Wednesday evening.
Cordova said a former communist supporter (Milisya ng Bayan) tipped government troops to the site of an arms cache, allegedly hidden by the NPA guerrillas on the evening of July 20.
The government troop seized rifles AK47, Carbine M4, M16 (Colt), Bushmaster with two magazines, 30 meters of firing wire gauge # 22, and an improvised explosive device, according to Cordova.
“The said arms cache and explosive devices belonged to the NPA rebels,” she said
In an intelligence report, she said the guerrillas belong to the NPA’s from Sentro de Grabidad, Guerrilla Front 16, North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee.
“Government troops just responded to a civilian report on the presence of an undetermined number of NPA rebels extorting and demanding all kinds of supplies from residents of remote Sitio Inayao,” said Army's 29IB commanding officer Col. Jason M. Saldua.
After validating the report, Saldua said the troops immediately launched a combat operation that upon reaching the area, they were able to discover a newly abandoned encampment of the NPA guerrillas.
By utilizing the K9 unit the troops were able to discover an arms cache containing numerous high-powered firearms and explosives, according to Saldua.
“We would like to extend our gratitude to our peace-loving residents of Sitio Inayao for tipping us to the location of the NPA rebels and their activities that they are doing in the area,” said Saldua.
He said that with the active support and participation of the civilians, they were able to immediately respond to the reports.
Saldua reiterated the government’s call on all remaining communist guerrillas to surrender and return to mainstream society.
“The 29IB is here and ready to assist you in starting anew," said Saldua, adding that assistance will be provided through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program.
“Take the chance to start a peaceful and harmonious life with your family and loved ones,” Saldua added.
