ARMY soldiers have arrested 21 alleged lawless elements following a one-hour gunbattle Thursday in North Cotobato that also left three of the suspects and one trooper wounded.
According to Lt. Col. Edgardo Batinay, head of the 34th Infantry Battalion, they received information about armed men traveling in a three-vehicle convoy headed to Sitio Tubak, Barangay Pagangan.
The soldiers immediately launched hot pursuit operations and caught up with the group, resulting in the firefight.
Maj. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete, commander of the 6th Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Central, commended his men’s heroism, especially citing Cpl. Roy Villaber, who was wounded in the gunfight.. The Division Commander also expressed gratitude for the timely reporting of residents regarding the sighting of armed groups.
“The heroism of Cpl. Villaber and his comrades is a testament to the unparalleled service of our soldiers. Their willingness to sacrifice their lives demonstrates their dedication to defending our nation against elements that aim to sow chaos. We will continue to fight for the peace and security enjoyed by our communities despite threats to peace,” Nafarrete said.
