NPA claims capturing 2 cops, 7 militiamen over offenses

DAVAO CITY, Philippines—The New People’s Army has captured two police officers and seven militiamen in the Caraga Region, in separate instances, in the past days.

Jorge Madlos, spokesperson of the National Democratic Front, said PO1 Ronald Alan Munez and PO1 Lemuel Espina were captured by NPA forces in Loreto town in Agusan del Sur on Sunday.

Madlos said the two policemen were allegedly behind extortion activities in a village in Loreto.

On Monday morning, communist rebels raided a detachment in Hinatuan town in Surigao del Sur, bringing with them three militiamen as captives.

Madlos said four militiamen in a hinterland village in San Luis in Agusan del Sur were also captured on Monday.

Also on Monday, NPA rebels raided the packing plant of Dole Philippines in Bukidon province and a plantation in Claveria town in Misamis Oriental province, burning heavy equipment.

Madlos said the captured security forces would undergo investigation to determine the gravity of their offense.

“The main reason for this is to send a message to political candidates that they must adhere to the policies of the revolutionary movement,” Ka Oris told the Philippine Daily Inquirer by phone on Monday.

“Candidates should secure a campaign permit before they can make sorties to the (communist-influenced) areas,” he said.

Lt. Col. Lydon Paniza, spokesperson of the 10th Infantry Division of the Eastern Mindanao Command, however, said in a text message that they have not received reports of the abductions.