Barangay Chairman Arrested for Killing Two Soldiers in Samar
Authorities have arrested a barangay chairman in Samar for allegedly killing two soldiers, local sources said. The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) confirmed the arrest took place in Barangay Saraw, Motiong town last Sunday.
The arrest came after warrants for murder and frustrated murder were issued by the Regional Trial Court Branch 29 in Catbalogan City, Samar, back in November 2016. These warrants relate to an ambush that happened in May 2015 in Barangay Concepcion, Paranas, where the suspect and 14 others reportedly attacked government troops.
Background of the Incident and Arrest
According to authorities, the suspect and his group allegedly belonged to a communist terrorist organization. The ambush resulted in the deaths of two Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) personnel and nearly killed two more soldiers.
At that time, the suspect, identified only as “Antonio,” had not yet been elected as barangay chairman, CIDG public information officer Maj. Helen Dela Cruz noted in an interview. However, CIDG has not confirmed when Antonio assumed the barangay leadership position.
Long Manhunt Ends
“For nine years, ‘Antonio’ evaded arrest by moving within the mountainous areas of Barangay Saraw, Motiong, Samar. However, the relentless manhunt team finally collared him and ended his free days,” the CIDG explained. He was apprehended by the CIDG Western Samar Provincial Field Unit and is now in custody.
This case highlights ongoing challenges in addressing local insurgencies and ensuring justice for attacks on government forces. The arrest marks a significant step forward in accountability for violent crimes linked to armed groups in the region.
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