Army, PNP recover NPA arms cache in CamNor

 Army, PNP recover NPA arms cache in CamNor

CAMP CAPINPIN, Rizal — Joint forces of the Philippine Army and the Philippine National Police recovered an NPA arms cache after acting on information provided by concerned citizens in Barangay Cabatuhan, Labo, on Friday, January 31.According to reports from the 201st Infantry (Kabalikat) Brigade, troops from the 16th Infantry (Maglilingkod) Battalion, together with personnel from the Philippine National Police, conducted focused military operations in the area following reports from residents regarding the suspected location of war materiel hidden by the terrorist group.

The operation resulted in the discovery and recovery of two improvised explosive devices (IEDs), 75 empty blasting caps, 78 pieces of Nitro EM 1,500, one roll of detonating cord, 583 rounds of assorted live ammunition and  ammunition cartridges.

This recovery marks the first arms cache discovery in Labo this year, following December recoveries in Barangay Exciban that included the largest single arms cache discovery for the 2nd Infantry (Jungle Fighter) Division.In a statement, 2nd Infantry (Jungle Fighter) Division Commander Major General Ramon Zagala said the recovery underscores the importance of community cooperation in preventing armed groups from threatening public safety.

“This recovery once again shows how the vigilance and cooperation of our communities directly contribute to denying terrorist groups the means to conduct violence,” Maj. Gen. Zagala said.“We continue to call on those who were deceived into fighting for a useless cause to surrender, lay down their arms, and return to their families. Peace and security are best achieved when communities and former rebels choose cooperation over violence,” Maj. Gen. Zagala added.Troops remain deployed in the area and are continuing security operations to prevent the movement of armed elements and ensure the safety and security of nearby communities.