CABADBARAN CITY, Agusan del Norte- three (3) high-powered firearms were recovered in an exchange of fires between Communist Terrorist Group (CTGs) and the troops of the 29th Infantry (Matatag) Battalion, Philippine Army at the vicinity of So Tubuhon, Brgy Bugsukan, Butuan City on May 03, 2023.
Prior to the said encounter, the unit received several tips from concerned citizens of So. Mandalayag, Brgy Pianing, Butuan City and displeased local residents from the neighboring areas regarding the presence of the NPAs in the barangay who were extorting foodstuff and demanding all kinds of supplies. Reportedly, the residents of the barangay can no longer withstand the danger that the CTGs are subjecting them.
Acting on the information, the troops conducted combat operations that resulted to the encounter of more or less ten (10) members of the CTGs under Arnel C Banguis @DINDO/KADOY/ANOK of Sandatahang Yunit Pampropaganda 21C, Weakened Guerilla Front21, Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee. After exchange of fires that lasted for 40 minutes, the troops recovered of two (2) AK47 rifles, one (1) M16A1 rifle, assorted ammunition, foodstuff and subversive documents with high intel value that were left by the fleeing CTGs.
According to LtCol Cresencio Gargar, Commanding Officer of 29IB, “We launched the combat operations in swift response to the information given by concerned civilians and residents to us. Rest assured that we will intensify our pursuit operations to chase down the fleeing CTGs who scampered in different directions. I call on the members of the CPP-NPA to lay down your arms and surrender peacefully for the sake of your families. The only remaining option for you now is to return to the folds of the law and mainstream society to live a peaceful normal life. We will do what our mandate in eradicating terrorist groups to maintain peace and order and foster development in Agusan del Norte.”
3 high-powered firearms Recovered in a Clash in Butuan City
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