Sunday, February 1, 2009

2 rebels killed, M-16s seized in Albay clash

Two rebels died on the spot while at least five firearms were recovered when army troopers and armed band of a New People’s Army (NPA) rebels figured in an encounter at around 5:30 p.m. the other day in the hinterland barangay of Sua-Igot in Tabaco City, Army officials here reported yesterday.

Col. Ariel Bernardo, commander of the 901st Army Brigade operating in Albay, said that the bodies of the slain rebels remained unidentified until press time and were already brought at the city proper for the identification of their relatives.

Bernardo said that five M-16 rifles, subversive documents and back pack of personal belingings were also recovered from the encounter site, which were believed to have been left by the fleeing comrades of the slain rebels.

The official also believed that several other rebels were either killed or wounded but were carried with them by their fellow rebels when they withdrew from the scene.

No wounded were reported on the military side, Bernardo said, adding that the clash, which lasted about 30 minutes, took place when the soldiers conducted foot patroling in the area following tips from residents  that armed men were seen frequenting the place. 

Bicol region is being considered as one of the rebel hot spots in the country since the 80’s.

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