A critically wounded CPP-NPA Terrorist (CNT) was captured, while one (1) high-powered firearm and other belongings were seized after 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division troops’ successful no-let up and aggressive pursuit operations in the far-flung barangay in Cagayan de Oro City.
On the evening of August 5, continuous military offensive conducted by the 1st Special Forces Battalion (1SFBn), under the operational control of the 403rd Infantry Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, resulted in an encounter with the members of Platun Uno, SRC 5, of the communist terrorist group’s North Central Mindanao Regional Committee (NCMRC) at Sitio Camang, Barangay Tignapoloan. This resulted in the seizure of one (1) M16 rifle and other war materiel and personal belongings. Subsequently, on August 6, while conducting pursuit operations, the troops, along with personnel from the Philippine National Police (PNP), captured a wounded CNT identified as Arnel V Arcayan, Political Guide, Platun Uno, SRC 5, NCMRC, at Sitio Malumpayad, Barangay Tignapoloan, same city.
“Our soldiers immediately administered first aid to the wounded NPA and coordinated with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and Cagayan de Oro City Disaster Risk Management Center (CDRMC) for the immediate extrication from the area and ensured his safe transport to Northern Mindanao Medical Center (NMMC) for further medical care,” 403rd Brigade Commander Brigadier General Michele B. Anayron Jr. said.
In the initial interview, the captured CNT disclosed that two CNTs were also wounded during the encounter. He identified them as Sonny Manseguiao, Commanding Officer and Julie Lindaan, Member of Platun Uno, both from SRC-5, NCMRC.
In a statement, Major General Jose Maria R. Cuerpo II, Commander of 4ID, applauded the troops for the successful conduct of a military offensive against the remaining CTG, which resulted in the capture of one of its members. Further, he said that the gesture of the troops towards the wounded enemy underscores the Joint Task Force Diamond’s commitment to upholding human rights and International Humanitarian Law, which is timely with this month’s celebration.
“As we endeavor to finally put an end to the atrocities of the NPA criminals, our troops remain committed to adhering to International Humanitarian Law, ensuring that human rights will be protected at all times without discrimination. The action of our troops toward the captured enemy manifested our sincere dedication to uphold the principles of IHL for all individuals, regardless of the situation,” MGen Cuerpo added.
