CAMP COL. RAFAEL C. RODRIGUEZ, Butuan City – Police and Army manning a checkpoint intercepted two motorcycles allegedly loaded with explosives and food supplies intended for the New People’s Army (NPA) in Barangay Poblacion 2, Santiago, Agusan del Norte on Holy Wednesday, March 31, police reported Monday.
Two persons driving the two motorcycles were arrested. Their identities were temporarily withheld while tactical investigation is still ongoing at the Santiago Municipal Police Station (MPS).
Seized from the suspects, said Caraga Police Regional Office 13 (PRO 13) director Police Brig. Gen. Romeo M. Caramat Jr., were 15 meters of detonating cord, one pipe bomb-type Improvised Explosive Device, and other bomb-making materials, including two magazines for 5.56 mm loaded with live ammunition, 33 rounds of caliber 5.56 live ammunition, and several assorted goods and food supplies.
Intelligence report said the items were supposed to be delivered for members of the NPA Guerrilla Front (GF) 16 of the Communist Party of the Philippines-NPA Northeastern Mindanao Regional Committee under the command of alias “Ka-Edroy.”
“The confiscated items are supposed to be supplied for the 52nd NPA anniversary celebration on March 29 but were delayed due to tightened security measures and law enforcement operations regionwide,” Caramat added.