Reds blame gov’t operations for delay in release of kidnapped cops

MARIHATAG, Surigao del Sur, Philippines – Police and military operations have been delaying the release of three policemen kidnapped by New People’s Army (NPA) rebels in this province, according to a communist leader.

National Democratic Front spokesman Jorge “Ka Oris” Madlos during the celebration of  the 46th anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines here, said only the three Surigao del Norte policemen have not been freed.

“All (the other captives) were freed.. this is because, the military and the police, despite of the Philippine government’s declaration of…SOMO (suspension of military operations) and SOPO (suspension of police operations) continue their military operations in Surigao del Norte, particularly in the areas where they were supposed to be released,” Madlos told The STAR.

On Friday, the NPA freed two soldiers – Pfcs. Marnel Cinches and Jerel Yorong – who were kidnapped in Bukidnon last August.

The release of the two policemen came a day after Jose Mervin Coquilla, chief warden of the Compostela Valley provincial jail, was kidnapped by suspected NPA rebels in Panabo City, Davao del Norte.