Authorities intercept food, explosives for Agusan rebels

By Alexander Lopez

SUPPLIES FOR REBELS. Two suspects were arrested Wednesday afternoon (March 31, 2021) in Poblacion 2, Santiago, Agusan del Norte with explosives and food supplies supposed to be delivered to New People’s Army rebels in the area. Authorities thanked residents for providing them with information. (Photo courtesy of PRO-13)

BUTUAN CITY – Explosives and food supplies believed to be owned by the New People’s Army (NPA) were intercepted in a joint checkpoint of the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Philippine Army on Wednesday afternoon in Santiago, Agusan del Norte.

In a press statement issued Thursday, Brig. Gen. Romeo M. Caramat Jr., director of the Police Regional Office in Caraga (PRO-13), said two motorcycle drivers were apprehended in Barangay Poblacion 2.

Caramat identified the riders as Darnel Jaudian and Raymund Tanghal, both 24 and residents of Barangay Telesfora in Tubay town.

“I thank the residents in the area for providing us with the information that led to the interception of the explosives and food supplies,” he said.

Seized from the two suspects were 15 meters of detonating cord, one pipe bomb-type improvised explosive device, two magazines for 5.56mm loaded with live ammunition, 33 rounds of caliber 5.56 live ammunition, and assorted goods and food supplies.

“Based on our intelligence report, the items were supposed to be delivered to the members of the NPA’s Guerrilla Front 16, North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee under the command of Rolando Leyson, Jr., alias Edroy,” Caramat said.

The delivery was scheduled on March 29, in time for the 52nd anniversary of the NPA, the report added.

The suspects are under the custody of the Santiago Municipal Police Station while awaiting charges. (PNA)