Tensions flare as cops barge into compound occupied by Kidapawan farmers

SHIELD AND ROCKS Part of a police shield and rocks are all that remain of the farmers’ protest action which was violently dispersed by police in Kidapawan City on Friday. JOHN PAGADUAN/CONTRIBUTOR

DAVAO CITY – Tensions ran high again between policemen and drought-stricken farmers in Kidapawan City on Saturday morning as the police – backed by a search warrant – barged into the compound of the Methodist Church.

It was at the church compound that the protesters who fled Friday’s violent dispersal have been staying in.

READ: Cops, farmers clash in Kidapawan; 2 dead

Anakpawis national vice president Ariel Casilao told the Inquirer by phone that the police reasoned out they were trying to search for firearms.

“Support groups are now trying to delay the police from entering the compound while we are waiting for the team of lawyers and legal experts to arrive and help the farmers,” Casilao said. CDG

READ: PNP: Kidapawan protesters attacked police first

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