BUENAVISTA, Agusan del Norte – A revelation made by a CPP-NPA Terrorist (CNT) who recently surrendered to the troops of the 23rd Infantry Battalion (23IB) has led to the discovery of the location of concealed arms cache that contained five (5) high powered firearms and ammunition in Sitio Mahogany, Barangay Ibuan, Las Nieves, Agusan del Norte on March 28, 2022.
The location of the arms cache was revealed by alias MJ, 18, a Political Guide, Squad Dos (Joker), Platoon Sagay, Sub-Regional Committee 3, North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC) of the NPA who earlier surrendered to this unit.
Alias MJ was wounded on her left calf after the series of encounters between the 23IB troops and Squad Dos of Platoon Sagay, SRC 3, NCMRC from 04 February 2022 and 16 March 2022 in Butuan City. Alias MJ also revealed that the firearms were owned by the members of said squad who also abandoned the group after the series of encounters.
With the said revelation, 23IB immediately deployed troops to locate the arms cache that eventually contained four (4) AK 47 Rifles, one (1) M1Garand Rifle, and four (4) AK47 magazines and live ammunition.
Despite the history of Alias MJ being an enemy of the state and having inflicted harm to the government troops in the past, the 23IB troops have manifested professionalism in handling her during her difficult physical condition, and with full respect for her human rights. She was immediately transported to a medical facility for medical attention to the wound she sustained, and to ensure her safety and health conditions.
Lt. Col. Julius Cesar C. Paulo, the Commanding Officer of 23IB said that the series of encounters were the result of the failed attempt of the CNTs to re-infiltrate the far flung communities in Butuan City and Las Nieves.
“This is a manifestation that the people are already awakening from the lies and deceptions of the CNTs, and refuse to be a victim again of their exploitations and violence,” Lt. Col. Paulo said.
He also assured the residents of Butuan and Las Nieves and the rest of the communities in Agusan del Norte of the 23IB’s continuing support and services.
“Your soldiers are not just peacekeepers but also agents of human rights who adhere to the International Humanitarian Law. The 23IB troops fully understand that the wounded, whether an enemy or an ally, must be given first aid and be treated fairly. Regardless if you are a soldier, a rebel, or a terrorist, we are all part of humanity who deserves to be respected and be given equal treatment,” Lt. Col. Paulo said.
He also urged the remaining CNTs, including those who continue to manifest their support to the terrorist group, to surrender.
