Troops seize NPA camp in Agusan del Norte

Elite Army troops have seized a camp abandoned by members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in Kitcharao, Agusan del Norte.

Capt. Joselito Ante Jr., civil-military operations officer of the 402nd brigade, said the camp was discovered last Monday by members of the 3rd Special Forces Battalion.

The rebel camp was discovered after three recent clashes in the area in the last two weeks.

“The NPA encampment can house an estimated 50 persons,” Ante said.

“This is believed to be a satellite camp of the NPA that was located a few kilometers away from the training camp that was previously discovered after the encounter last Friday,” he added.

Empty bottles of dextrose and other medical paraphernalia were recovered from the abandoned camp.

Lt. Col. Potenciano Camba, commander of the 3rd Special Forces Battalion, said they are ready to provide medical assistance to the wounded rebels. 

“The conduct of the pursuit operations by the military is to ensure the populace in the area that the NPA can no longer sow terror to the community,” Camba said.

“We also appeal to these NPAs to let their wounded comrades have the proper medical attention they need by bringing them to the licensed medical practitioners in our government hospitals,” he added.

For his part, Col. Ronald Albano, chief of the 402nd brigade, called on the insurgents to abandon the armed struggle and live peaceful lives.

“We are encouraging our brothers in the NPA to lay down your arms and return to the folds of the law. We would do our part to provide you the security you need and help you re-establish your life,” he said.