Bishop condemns deadly operation, calls for probe

By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

At least 14 people are confirmed dead, while 15 others were arrested, following a massive police operation that took place over the weekend in Canlaon City, Manjuyod, Santa Catalina, and Mabinay.

Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office (NOrPPO) Director, Police Colonel Raul Tacaca, said “Oplan: Sauron” sought to serve search and arrest warrants to suspected members of the New People’s Army (NPA), along with alleged supporters.

Tacaca said eight of the fatalities are from Canlaon City, four from Manjuyod, and two from Santa Catalina.

The 15 arrested, meanwhile, are from Mabinay.

In addition, Corporal Ian Puerto of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion was wounded in an ensuing shootout.

Tacaca added, those who died had attempted to fight off police officers.
Authorities recovered a total of 31 firearms from the operation.

In response to the operations, Diocese of San Carlos Bishop Gerardo Alminaza condemned the incident.

“What is happening?” he asked. “Are we still observing law and order?”

“We demand a quick investigation on this and appeal to our government authorities to restore peace and order,” he added.

A similar operation was also conducted last December, which resulted in the deaths of six people and the arrest of 31 others./DGB, WDJ