Police: NPA sightings in Negros Occidental increasing

New People’s Army. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

BACOLOD CITY — The number of reported sightings of armed New People’s Army (NPA) fighters in Negros Occidental have increased recently.

The latest were in the hinterland areas of two towns and one city on Monday, said Senior Supt. Rodolfo Castil, acting provincial police director.

“It appears to be a rebel tactic to bait responding law enforces into a trap similar to what happened in Guihulngan, Negros Oriental, where six police officers were ambushed on July 21,” he said.

About 15 armed rebels were reported to have been spotted in Candoni town headed for Hinoba-an town in southern Negros Occidental on Monday.

At least 15 rebels were seen in La Carlota City on the same day, he said.

The Philippines National Police was also verifying such sightings but is being cautious to avoid falling into NPA traps, he said.

“The police are on full alert against expected tactical offensives from rebel forces,” Castil added.

He said the increase in reported rebel sightings was noted especially after the Guihulngan incident, as residents apparently were more aware of the need to inform authorities of the presence of armed men. /atm