CAMP GENERAL VICENTE LUKBAN, CATBALOGAN CITY – A platoon from 43rd Infantry (We Search) Battalion, while conducting security patrol in Barangay San Vicente, Catubig, Northern Samar, encountered undetermined number of CPP-NPA Terrorists (CNTs) at around 4:05 am on Thursday (April 5).
Troops were in the area to check the validity of the information relayed to them by the populace on the extortion activities of the armed group.
The encounter resulted in the apprehension of two suspected CNTs (their names are presently withheld) and the recovery of one M16A1 Elisco rifle, two magazines long, two magazines short, 79 rounds for 5.56mm ammunition, one Lenovo laptop, three USB drive, one memory card, two card readers and, two cellphones.
There was no casualty or injury on the government side.
Maj. Gen. Raul M. Farnacio, commander 8ID, lauded the troops for a job well done and urged them to be aggressive against the CNTs who continue to harass civilian communities thru armed threats and deceptions.
In his statement, Maj. Gen. Farnacio said that, “troops are there in the area to protect the people and safeguard the ongoing PAMANA Projects and other government projects in Northern Samar. This incident clearly shows that these CNTs are desperate to incur casualties to government troops to slow down the delivery of basic services of the government to the communities.”
“This terrorist group is responsible for large-scale extortion activities, and other criminal acts that instill fear and anxiety in the hearts and mind of the peace-loving Filipinos that greatly affects their day-to-day activities,” Farnacio added. (PR)
