Government troops encounter lawless elements, recover war items

By Jong Cadion

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (January 21, 2018) – Troops of Joint Task Force “ZAMPELAN” encountered members of “lawless elements” at Sitio Balas, Brgy Poblacion, Kalawait, Zamboanga del Norte, 7AM Saturday (Jan. 20), military official said.

Information officer Maj Ronald E Suscano, 1^st Infantry (TABAK) Division, PA, disclosed that the operating troops under 42IB composed of five (5) enlisted personnel and twenty (20) CAFGU Active Auxiliary (CAA) led by Cpl Rowen A Soler (SC) PA were conducting combat patrol at the vicinity of the said area when they encountered the “Suminggal” lawless group. Suminggal Group is allegedly headed by Monib Aquilan roaming around in the southern part of Zamboanga del Norte conducting extortions and land grabbing activities in the local populace.

Maj Suscano said that the firefight which lasted for about thirty (30) minutes compelled the enemy to withdrew heading towards the direction of Brgy Palalian, Kalawit, ZDN. After the firefight, the troops recovered one (1) hand guard of M203 grenade launcher; one (1) bolt chamber of M16 rifle; one (1) hammock; 293 ammo of M16 rifle; 254 ammo of M14 rifle; one (1) pair of combat boots and an Arabic booklet.

The 42IB under the stewardship of Lt Col Danilo G Ambe is conducting pursuit operation to trackdown and eventually defeat the said lawless group that disturbs and brings horror to the normal life of the affected civilian community.

“Our soldiers stand ready to respond and address any attempt by the armed threat groups threatening the safety and well-being of the people”, said Maj Gen Roseller G Murillo AFP, 1st ID Commader as he lauded the operating troops for the successful encounter.   

  “Our active support to Law Enforcement Operations has been vital and momentous for the government. Let us continue to actively support Law Enforcement Support Operations”, he added.