Philippines: members of the New People’s Army arrested in Agusan del Sur

Filipino authorities arrested an alleged leader and seven members of the New People’s Army (NPA) in the province of Agusan del Sur. They also seized several firearms and explosives during the operation. The arrested individuals were identified as alias “Nikki,” secretary of the Southern Mindanao Regional Committee (SMRC)-Regional Party; alias “Gideon,” vice commanding general; alias “Pam,” unit’s medic; alias “Jomilyn;” alias “Laloy;” alias “Tonton;” alias “RonRon;” and alias “Jelyn.” According to the Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom), they are part of the Jaguar Platoon under the SMRC. The Police Regional Office-Caraga (PRO-13) added that they will face charges for alleged violations of the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act (RA 10591) and unlawful possession of explosives (RA 9516). EastMinCom commander Lt. Gen. Luis Rex Bergante commended his men and the other forces involved in the operation for the successful outcome and the restraint shown toward the arrested individuals.