Rescue operations for 3 captive cops suspended

MANILA, Philippines - Police and military units in Southern Luzon were ordered to remain in their respective barracks for a week to pave the way for the safe release of three policemen who were taken hostage by the New People’s Army (NPA) in an encounter in Rodriguez, Rizal last Jan. 3.

Lt. Gen. Delfin Bangit, Southern Luzon Command chief, and Chief Superintendent Perfecto Palad, Calabarzon police director, directed their respective units to suspend internal security operations in the first district of Quezon, second district of Rizal and the fourth district of Laguna effective midnight of March 20 to midnight of March 27.

Rizal Gov. Casimiro Ynares III requested Bangit and Pa­­-lad to suspend rescue operations for the three captive policemen – Inspector Rex Cuntapay and PO1s Marvin Agasen and Alberto Umali – to facilitate his initiative, upon their wives’ request, to seek their release.

Palad warned though that while they have suspended the rescue operations, police would continue going after criminals to protect the public.