Auxilliary Threat Group member killed in law enforcement operations in ZSP

By Jong Cadion

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (April 7, 2017) – A member of an Auxiliary Threat Group (ATG) was killed in a joint law enforcement operation conducted by the troops of 17SFC, 6SFBn, 102^nd Bde,  and  RSOG9, PNP at So Ulingan, Bgy. Salipyasin, Kabasalan, Zamboanga Sibugay Province at around 1:30 PM yesterday, military official said.

1^st Infantry (TABAK) Division, Philippine Army Spokesperson LTC Jo-ar A. Herrera disclosed that the operation resulted to the death of Samuhong Ahod and the captured of a certain Akhmad Dapat. Both Ahod and Dapat are members of the ATG.

After a report from a concerned citizen in the said barangay about the presence of the ATG, The Philippine Army and PNP immediately responded with a joint law enforcement operation, LTC Herrera added.

LTC Herrera said that an exchange of gunfire ensued in the area when the law enforcer troops were fired upon by the ATG. After about five minutes of fire fight, the overpowered ATG withdrew to an unknown direction. A hot pursuit operation is being conducted to apprehend the ATG.

“Our ground troops, while upholding the rules of engagement, continue to strengthen the conduct of joint law enforcement operations in Zampelan area to contain lawless groups and pre-empt the conduct of atrocities in the province,” said Brigadier General Rolando Joselito D. Bautista AFP, Commander, 1^st Infantry (TABAK) Division, Philippine Army.

According to BGen. Bautista, the cooperation of concerned constituents to report the presence of lawless elements in their area shows their trust and confidence to the Philippine Army and PNP.

“As protector of the state, we support the PNP in its efforts against criminality and lawlessness,” BGen. Bautista said.