By Alexander Lopez

BUTUAN CITY – Government forces killed two New People’s Army (NPA) rebels and captured four others during clashes in Butuan City and Surigao del Sur, the Army’s 4th Infantry Division (4ID) reported Friday.
In a statement, the 4ID said troops from the 29th Infantry Battalion engaged about 10 NPA rebels in a 10-minute firefight in Sitio Dinakpan, Barangay Los Angeles, Butuan City on Jan. 28.
Two rebels were killed. Recovered were an AK-47 rifle, a Bushmaster rifle, medical supplies and personal belongings.
On the same day, the 3rd Special Forces Battalion clashed twice with NPA rebels in Barangay Pong-on, San Agustin, Surigao del Sur.
After the first encounter, troops recovered an AK-47 rifle, three backpacks and medical supplies. In the second clash, four NPA insurgents were captured.
“These successful operations showcase the 4ID’s steadfast commitment to ending decades of insurgency and achieving lasting peace for the people of Caraga,” 4ID commander Brig. Gen. Michele Anayron Jr.
He urged remaining NPA members to surrender and avail themselves of the government’s reintegration programs. (PNA)