Gunman killed as security forces, NPA clash in Ozamiz City

An alleged New People's Army gunman was killed while seven suspects were arrested after security forces clashed with the communist rebel group in Ozamiz City on Sunday.

The Philippine Army's 10th Infantry Battalion and the 2nd Philippine National Police (PNP) Mobile Force Company were operating near Barangay Bagacay when they clashed with the NPA gunmen.

The rebels were compelled to withdraw and were pursued towards Barangay Cogon, the Army revealed.

Lieutenant Colonel Ray Tiongson, 10th Infantry Battalion commander, said they recovered of an M16 rifle, four .45 caliber pistol, seven hand grenades, three motorcycles, and improvised explosive-device components from the scene of the fight.

One of the arrested rebels was wounded in the fight and was brought to hospital. The six other suspects were in police custody awaiting the proper charges to be filed against them.

Meanwhile, two soldiers were also wounded in the firefight and were also immediately brought to hospital.

Additional troops were sent to the area to pursue the fleeing NPA band, while PNP Scene of the Crime Operatives (SOCO) were at the site of the encounter to conduct their investigation. — Joviland Rita/DVM, GMA News