NPA Couple's Tip Leads To Siezure Of High Powered Firearm In Butuan City

CAMP EVANGELISTA, Cagayan de Oro City - Troops of the 48th Infantry Battalion, under the operational control of the 901st Infantry Brigade, successfully siezed one high-powered firearm from an NPA arms cache at Purok 4, Brgy. Pianing, Butuan City on July 16, following a critical tip-off from a recently surrendered NPA couple.

The AK47 rifle, along with four empty magazines and bandolier, was unearthed after the couple voluntarily disclosed the location of the hidden cache to show their sincerity and cooperation with the government’s peace and reintegration efforts.

The couple, identified as Marjun Sagay Navarro alias Julia/Etol and Rosemarie Garcia alias Marianne, were former members of the NPA operating in Caraga Region who yielded to 48IB and 29IB troops last July 12.

Lieutenant Colonel Kenny Rae C. Tizon, Commanding Officer of 48IB, said this is part of their continuing efforts in hunting down remaining NPA members and capturing their firearms is essential for the attainment of Stable Internal Peace and Security (SIPS) situation in the province Agusan del Norte.

“The capture of remaining NPA firearms not only reduces the group's operational capability but also protects our communities from the threats posed by NPA remnants. Our mission is anchored on dismantling NPA units and end local communist armed conflict in the province, and this operation is a clear manifestation of our troops’ commitment to that goal," he added.

Meanwhile, in his message, Major General Michele B. Anayron Jr., Commander of 4ID, commended the 48IB troops for their quick action, and highlighted the growing trust of former rebels in the government. He added that the 4ID will remain persistent in the pursuit of lasting peace and will continue to work closely with local government units, communities, and former rebels who choose to abandon violence and support the path to reconciliation.