NATION

Two rebels surrender, arms seized in Bulacan

Jonas Reyes

Two communist rebels surrendered while government forces seized an arms cache during a joint Law Enforcement Support Operation in Sitio Macua, Barangay Kabayunan, Doña Remedios Trinidad, Bulacan, recently.

The operation was carried out by Joint Task Group 7-2 under Brig. Gen. Eugenio Julio C. Osias IV, commander of the Army’s 703rd Infantry (Agila) Brigade, together with elements of the 70th Infantry Battalion led by Lt. Col. Ryan Cayton.

Authorities said the coordinated effort, conducted with the support of various military units and law enforcement agencies, resulted in the voluntary surrender of two CTG members.

Recovered during the operation were an M653 rifle with a defaced serial number, an M16A1 rifle with a defaced serial number, two short alloy magazines for an M16, and 37 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition.

Osias commended the operating troops and partner agencies, saying the surrender of the two individuals and the recovery of high-powered firearms deliver a significant setback to the remaining lawless elements in the area.

“This operation demonstrates our unwavering commitment to eliminating threats to peace and security. The continued cooperation of our communities and partner agencies plays a crucial role in sustaining stability across the province,” he said.

The 703rd Infantry Brigade said it remains committed to safeguarding communities and supporting peace initiatives in coordination with local governments and law enforcement units.