CAMP CAPINPIN, Tanay, Rizal — A notorious New Peoples Army (NPA) leader was killed in a firefight after his group encountered government forces in Sitio Pung-uy, Brgy. Masaya, Buenavista, Quezon yesterday morning.
The 2nd Infantry Division Public Information Chief Capt. Jayrald Ternio said the casualty was identified as Ronnel Batarlo alias Marwin.
An M16 rifle and an M203 grenade launcher were recovered after the 45-minute gunfight.
Ternio said that the NPA group was also responsible for various terror activities, including the ambush of police officers at Brgy. San Juan in San Narciso, Quezon in February last year.
Ternio also added that the military encountered them early last week in Brgy Bulo, Mulanay town.
MGen. Greg Almerol, Commander of the Army’s 2nd Infantry Division, said that the trooper who was injured during the encounter with Marwin’s group is already in stable condition and is currently recuperating in the hospital.
“This recent incident would not happen if these NPA terrorists heeded the government’s call for peace and given themselves a chance to live away from the horrors of terrorism. We, therefore, encourage the rest to surrender and return to the folds of the law before it’s too late.”
All available military assets have been placed on high alert in support of the ongoing pursuit operations against the fleeing terrorists.
Joint AFP-PNP checkpoints were also established on possible exit points in the area.