Military recovers arms, war materiel in Davao de Oro

May 11, 2020

Government troops recovered high-powered firearms and other war materiel following a clash with alleged members of the New People's Army (NPA) in Davao de Oro on Monday morning.

2nd Lt. Kim Carlos, civil military operations officer of the 71st Infantry Battalion. said government troops encountered around five alleged members of the Weakened Guerilla Front 2 (WGF 2) of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Sitio Magnonook, Brgy Pangibiran, Mabini, Davao de Oro around 7 am.

Carlos said the troops of 71st IB launched strikes against the rebels following complaints of residents about harassment  by members of NPA within their community.

After several minutes of firefight, soldiers recovered one improvised explosive device and two high- powered firearms including one M16 and one AK47 rifle.

Other items recovered were 10 magazines, 206 live ammo, seven blasting cap, 100-meter electrical wire, four backpacks with personal belongings and subversive documents.

Carlos failed to confirm the number of casualties on the enemy side but he noted bloodstains were found along the route where the armed men withdrew.

Lt. Col. Sonny Gonzales, 71st IB Commanding Officer. said the military is determined to destroy the rebels in the area.

“We will not allow NPA to perpetrate horrible acts anymore, or as freely as they like. Nevertheless, let us to strive even harder, think even smarter and move even swifter so that we can really end local armed conflict in our area of operation," he said. Robina Asido/DMS