NPA blames Army for stalled release of captured cops

BAYOMBONG, Philippines – One month after the communist New People’s Army (NPA) said that it was ready to release three captured police officers for being free from any misconduct, a recent statement from the rebel group now demands a stop to military operations before it frees the "prisoners of war." Inspector Rex Cuntapay, Police Officer 1 Alberto Umali and Police Officer 1 Marvin Agasen – all members of the 418th Provincial Mobile Group in Rizal – were captured in an ambush by rebels belonging to the Narcizo Antazo Aramil Command (NAAC) in Rodriguez town on Jan. 3. In response, the Army's 2nd Infantry Division issued a statement that reads in part: "Their recent demand to stop military operations as a bargain to the three captured [policemen’s] freedom is an unjust call. They should walk the talk and release their captives unconditionally. Only criminals and bandits hold innocent captives in exchange for a demand... We are saddened for the hapless victims’ wives who are used by the NPA (Rizal) in their propaganda to escape from the military dragnet and to ask the government to stop the rescue operation." The 2nd Infantry Division is based in Camp Gen. Mateo Capinpin in Tanay. According to the Army, Cuntapay’s group was not there for any operations against the NPA and that the rebels were the ones who burned the vehicle, which was not destroyed by a land mine blast. The incident reportedly burned the leg of Police Officer 1 Erickson Aquino who later died. "Since the NPA abduction is a crime, it is the government’s inherent function to run after them and enforce the rule of law," the Army said. In response, the NPA said the Army and the PNP never learned their lesson. According to the communist group, a failed military rescue operations 10 years ago nearly killed NPA POWs, former Rodriguez police head Chief Inspector Rene Francisco, and an Army sergeant. The Francisco and the sergeant were released when representatives from the government negotiated with National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP). “With the continuous massive military operations, the Arroyo regime and the AFP/PNP leadership bear on their shoulder any action that may prejudice the safety and lives of the three police officers," the NPA statement read. Cuntapay’s father Domingo, earlier appealed for his son’s immediate release, saying that the abducted police officer was a good man and should not be made to suffer for sins he did not commit. "We are very far from Manila, but my son chose to return to his post before New Year’s Day rather than enjoy a longer holiday with his family. That’s how he loved his work," the older Cuntapay said. The Cuntapays hail from Enrile town in the northern province of Cagayan. - GMANews.TV