Army encounters anew the fleeing NPA in Panay

Army encounters anew the fleeing NPA in Panay

SERIES of encounters between the 61st Infantry (Hunter) Battalion and the fleeing NPA members of Southern Panay Front (SPF) Kometing Rehiyon – Panay transpired in the hinter areas of Miag-ao Iloilo on March 04, 2024.

This is a progress of the pursuit operation being conducted by the 301st Infantry (Bayanihan) Brigade in response to the continuous information shared by the locals to show their protest on the presence and extorsion activities of the Communist NPA Terrorist (CNTs) in Panay.

Since the previous encounter on 28 February 2024, 301IBde has been conducting massive information and dissemination in the affected communities encouraging the members of NPA to surrender and return to the folds of the law and avail of the various programs and services offered by the government.

The first encounter ensued at about 04:40 in the afternoon in Barangay Igsoligue, Miag-ao Iloilo. Firefight lasted for about 15 minutes after which the enemies scampered towards North West Direction. After which another encounter transpired in Barangay Igcabito-on, Miag-ao, Iloilo while the operating troops pursuing the rebels in the first encounter.

The series of firefight resulted in the capture of the following items: one (1) M16 Rifle, one (1) cal. 45 Pistol, one (1) Rifle Grenade, one (1) bandolier, one (1) commercial radio, four (4) mobile cellphones, four (4) backpacks, five (5) M16 magazines, 169rds (m16), two (2) AK47 magazines, 54rds (Ak47), one (1) EID detonator, seven (7) blasting caps, one (1) NPA flag, assorted medical items and other subversive documents. Bloodstains were also visible in the withdrawal route which indicate that there are wounded CNT members during the encounters.

301st Brigade Commander, Brigadier General Michael G Samson, reiterated his call to the remaining CNT members to lay down their arms and go back to their families and live peacefully, “Our government and your Philippine Army are waiting for your return and is always willing to help you to improve your lives in order for you and your family to have a brighter future.”

He also expressed his gratitude to the concerned citizens who bravely provided positive and timely information to the government forces regarding the activities and whereabouts of the enemies.

 

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