By CESAR JOLITO III

A clash between government troops and suspected rebels erupted near residential areas at Barangay 11 in Negros Occidental’s Victorias City on Sunday night, September 14, as the Army noted that despite the exchange of gunfire near populated areas, no civilians were harmed.

According to 1st Lt. Dan Carlo Samoza, civil military operations officer of the 79th Infantry Battalion (IB), the encounter happened around 7:00 p.m. close to the newly built barangay hall and several houses in Proper Gawahon.

The troops were conducting a community support program and night patrol in the area.

They were met by gunfire from an estimated five armed men believed to be members of a local insurgent group.

“The encounter appears to have been intended by the rebel group,” Samoza said.

He said the military had earlier received reports that the village was a frequent site of extortion activities, prompting the establishment of a military facility to prevent insurgent influence.

The 79IB assured residents that it is taking steps to secure the community and maintain peace and order.

As of press time, pursuit and clearing operations are ongoing at the encounter site./CJ, WDJ