Suspected communist rebel killed in Zambo del Sur clash

A suspected communist was killed during a firefight in Dumingag, Zamboanga del Sur on Monday.

The Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) said troops were conducting combat operations in Barangay Marangan when they encountered alleged members of communist group.

The gun battle lasted for 25 minutes, the military said.

Aside from the body of the suspected rebel, the military were able to recover four high-powered firearms including two M16 and one AK47 rifles as well as a M203 grenade launcher.

Hot pursuit operations are ongoing for the suspects who were able to escape, the military said.

“Our deliberate operations against the annihilators of peaceful communities in our area of operation continues,” WestMinCom chief Lieutenant General Corleto Vinluan said.

“The weakened structure of our enemies gives us more resolve to further intensify our operations to hunt and pound their remaining members,” he added.—LDF, GMA News