Troops recover high-powered firearms from alleged NPAs in Zamboanga del Norte

June 12, 2020

Troops recovered high-powered firearms in a clash with alleged New People's Army rebels in Zamboanga del Norte on Tuesday.

Maj. Arvin Encinas, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Western Mindanao Command spokesman said the troops of 44th Infantry Battalion were conducting security operation when they encounter the rebels at the vicinity of Sitio Waloangka, Barangay Tinuyop, Leon B. Postigo, Zamboanga del Norte.

Lt. Col. Don Templonuevo, commanding officer of 44th IB, said the security operation was conducted in response to the reported presence of the rebels conducting extortion activities in the community.

The firefight that lasted for five minutes has resulted to the recovery of one AK47, one M16A1 rifles, and subversive documents with intelligence value.

Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, Commander, Western Mindanao Command expressed optimism that with the unrelenting support of the community, "we will soon attain genuine peace and sustainable development here in Mindanao." Robina Asido/DMS