MALAYBALAY CITY (Jan. 08, 2024) – A joint law enforcement operation involving military and police forces have recovered a cache of high-powered firearms purportedly owned by the New People’s Army (NPA) in a hinterland in Brgy. San Rafael, Talakag, Bukidnon on Jan. 6, 2024

According to the Bukidnon Police Provincial Office (BPPO), a buried sack containing hard metal-like elements was successfully found and unearthed in the area.

The recovered dangerous weapons include five (5) units of M16 Rifles, two (2) M16 lower receivers, one (1) cal .45 pistol, seven units of M16 long magazines, three units of M16 short magazines, 13 units of M14 magazines, and 15 units of AK47 magazines.

The BPPO said the successful seizure of the deadly weaponry was based on the revelation of a surrendered insurgent.

Furthermore, all found objects are being held temporarily by Regional Mobile Force Battalion (RMFB) 10 for safekeeping.

It will then be handed up to the Scene of Crime Operatives (SOCO) for forensic analysis and disposal.

In a statement, Police Col. Jovit L. Culaway, OIC of BPPO, urged remaining sympathizers and members of Communist Terrorist Groups (CTGs) to lay down their guns, return to the folds of government, and give peace a chance. (melbmadera)