NPAs torch banana-laden Dole van

MANILA, Philippines – Suspected communist rebels torched a container van owned by Dole Philippines after flagging it down in a secluded area in Surigao del Sur on Friday, the military said.

The incident at the boundary of Marihatag and San Agustin towns was apparently a way of the New People’s Army (NPA) to get even with Army troops who, two days ago, were able to convince 12 guerrillas in Surigao del Norte to give themselves up.

Maj. Eugenio Julio Osias, spokesman of the 4th Infantry Division and commander of the 4th Civil Military Operations Battalion, said heavily armed rebels intercepted the Dole container van carrying bananas which was en route to Davao City.

“Businesses which help our communities and economy are being harassed for the motive of profiteering. We are asking the full cooperation of the people and communities to help us end the illegal activities of the NPA,” Osias said.

Men of the 29th Infantry Battalion were dispatched to the area but failed to catch up with the rebels. –Jaime Laude (The Philippine Star)