Army starts probe on abduction of soldiers, militiamen in AgSur

By Jigger Jerusalem/PNA

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The Army’s 4th Infantry Division (4ID) has started its investigation into the predawn attack of a military detachment by communist rebels in Agusan del Sur town of Sibagat Wednesday morning.

Capt. Reggie Go, acting Division Public Affairs Office chief of the 4ID, said members of the Board of Inquiry has already inspected the detachment to determine possible lapses committed by the soldiers.

The raid by some 50 NPA combatants resulted in the abduction of two soldiers and 12 militiamen, and the seizure of high-power firearms including 17 M16 rifles, and two R4 assault rifles.

“If found out that the captured troops committed neglect of duty, they will be held accountable before the military justice system, with corresponding punishment,” Go said.

In a statement Thursday, NPA spokesperson Sandara Amihan said rebels carried out the raid without firing a single shot.

Maj. Gen. Ronald Villanueva, 4ID commander, said the captive soldiers and militiamen will likely be discharged from service if found negligent.

Villanueva added that the military will not negotiate with the NPA.

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