87IB hits another NPA camp high powered firearms and war materiel recovered

Camp Lukban, Catbalogan, Samar – Few days after the reported encounter of the Army’s 63rd Infantry Battalion, another tactical accomplishment has been achieved by the 8th Infantry Division when 87th Infantry Battalion successfully overran another New People’s Army’s (NPA) camp in the forested part of Brgy Capootan in the town of Las Navas, Northern Samar around 2:30 p.m. yesterday, following a tip from civilian.

Based on the initial report, the troops were on security patrol when an undisclosed civilian who just came from his farmland informed them of the presence of armed men suspected to be NPAs who are frequently seen in the said area.

Said civilian (name withheld for security reason) then led the troops to the area where they chanced upon some 30 armed terrorists under unknown leader that immediately resulted to a firefight. Exchange of fire ensued and lasted for about 20 minutes before the enemy fled away after suffering heavy casualties.

The overrun encampment later found out to have 25 bunkers, two (2) kitchens, two (2) posts and one (1) rest room. Also recovered in the area are one (1) M14 assault rifle, one (1) M16 armalite rifle, one (1) homemade shot gun, seven (7) magazines for M14, assorted medicines, medical apparatus, 20 kilos of rice, three (3) USB, memory card, personal belongings and voluminous subversive documents with significant value. No one was reported hurt on the side of the government.

Earlier, two (2) enemy camps were also recovered by the government in the hinterlands of same municipality.

In Brgy Paco of Las Navas, an abandoned enemy camp captured by the troops of 63IB last January 31 and another enemy encampment was captured by the elements of 3rd Scout Ranger Company in the boundary of Brgys Inaguingayan and San Andres also of same municipality last February 1 both because of the civilian tipster.

Meanwhile, Major General Mario Chan, 8ID’s Commander commended the collaborative effort of the civilians to the soldiers.

“As I was always saying, the success of our campaign could not be possible without the support of our people whom we are serving. Troops involved in the feat will surely be recognized and awarded because of their sacrifices. However, I would also like to thank our people for continuously exerting more effort just to contribute with our aspirations. Though we are gaining grounds against the terrorist, I am also saddened to note that somebody’s life has to be sacrificed,” says Major General Chan.

He further said that with the continuous conduct of the Division’s intensified combat operations especially with the unwavering support of the people to thwart the enemy in the area, the terrorists today have no where to hide.

As of press time, the troops continue to pursue the fleeing terrorists to let them face the criminal charges against the peace loving people of Region 8. ###