NPA rebel dies, 2 wounded in Zambo Sur clash

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur, Jan. 21 (PNA) -– A New People’s Army (NPA) rebel was killed while two others were wounded in a clash with government troops in the nearby town of Lapuyan, this province, a military official announced Thursday.

Lt. Col. Alvin Luzon, Army’s 53rd Infantry Battalion commander, said the clash broke out around 7 a.m. Wednesday in Purok 2, Barangay Tiguha, Lapuyan.

Luzon said the troops of the Bravo Company led by 2Lt. Abner Pilando were checking on the reported presence of 20 NPA rebels intimidating and extorting the residents when they spotted them in the area.

Luzon said a firefight ensued and lasted for about an hour after which the NPA rebels fled dragging along with them their three wounded comrades.

However, Luzon said intelligence report indicated that one of the three wounded NPA rebels had died.

He said the NPA rebels belong to the Sandatahang Yunit Pampropaganda (SYP) Platoon of Natarang Guerilla “Kara” operating in this province.

He said the troops have recovered from the clash site the following: M-16 Armalite rifle; improvised bomb; assorted ammunition; subversive documents of high intelligence value; food stuffs; and, personal belonging.

Meanwhile, Luzon acknowledged the cooperation of the barangay folks through providing timely information which is of big help in keeping their community NPA-free area. (PNA)

FFC/TPGJR/HIROHITO D. CADION