THE 44th Division Reconnaissance Company, 4th Division Reconnaissance Battalion, under the operational control of the 401st Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army scored and killed one member of the New People’s Army during a 30-minute firefight that took place in Sitio Sta Fe, Purok 5, Barangay Magsaysay in Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur on March 4.
Capt. Arc F. Jayson, Civil Military Officer of the 401st Brigade based in Prosperidad has confirmed in a phone called.
She identified the casualty as Arnel Dator, also known as ‘Darwin,’ a member of the Sub-Regional Sentro de Gravidad Southland, North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee.
Immediately, the remains of the NPA member were turned over to the local government of Prosperidad for proper disposition said Capt. Jayson.
She said rebels were forced to retreat, leaving the body of their comrade behind, while the government troops captured two weapons, an M16 rifle, and an AR18 rifle that the NPA had left behind in the encounter.
Backpacks, a bandolier, and subversive documents were also recovered and all of the items were handed over to the appropriate authorities for further investigation Capt Jayson added.
In a statement, Col. Emil Cruz, Acting Commander of the 401st Infantry Brigade, commended the troops for their efforts and reaffirmed the military's commitment to peace and security in the region.
“We remain steadfast in our mission to protect our communities and ensure a secure environment for progress and development. This successful operation highlights the strong collaboration between security forces and residents in achieving lasting peace,” Cruz’ statement reads in part.
Cruz also renewed his call for the remaining NPA members to surrender and reintegrate into society, encouraging them to abandon armed struggle in favor of a peaceful and productive life.
The operation was initiated in response to reports from concerned residents about the insurgency activities in the area, including alleged extortion and other disruptive actions affecting local communities.
