Cops seize firearms buried by Masbate rebel group

Masbate map. INQUIRER FILES

DARAGA, ALBAY — A cache of firearms and personal belongings believed buried by a New People’s Army (NPA) group in Aroroy town in Masbate province were recovered Thursday by police and military officials..

Acting on intelligence reports, personnel from various units of Aroroy and Masbate police conducted a search at 6 a.m. in a mountainous area of Sitio (sub-village) Alpha in Barangay Balete.

They found more than 200 items of war materials ranging from firearms to clothing during the operation.

Officials recovered two improvised shotguns, one carabine, and parts for M-16 rifles, along with 10 firearm magazines. Also included in the cache were 191 rounds of ammunition – 155 for different-sized rifles and 36 for a carbine.

A red and yellow NPA flag, assorted medical accessories, clothing, and ropes were also recovered.

Authorities reported that they were tipped off by two former Masbate rebels identified as “Ka Gerald” and “Ka Mae,” who volunteered information regarding the location of the hidden cache.

The recovered items are under the custody of Aroroy police for proper documentation and disposition. Geromae Hope de la Fuente Inquirer Intern

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