Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City – A high-ranking Communist NPA Terrorist (CNT) leader was killed during an encounter with the troops of the 67th Infantry Battalion under the 701st Infantry Brigade on July 21, 2022, at Sitio Dam, Brgy Guinahalinan, Barobo, Surigao Del Sur.
The soldiers conducting security operations engaged the group of Arnold C Ornales alias Ka Jorlan for about 20 minutes. Ornales obtained severe gunshot wounds, which caused his instantaneous death. He was the leader of the remnants of the Dismantled Guerilla Front 14. The operating troops seized one (1) M4 rifle, ammunition, other war materials, and personal belongings from the enemy.
Meanwhile, 10ID Commander MGen Nolasco A Mempin condoles with Ornales’ family as he again calls for the remaining CNTs to return to the folds of the law. “We call on the remaining CNTs in Surigao Del Sur to surrender and return to your family. We know that there are still wounded CNTs after the said firefight; you cannot hide forever. The masses are with us now; sooner or later, they will pinpoint your location. Surrender now, do not wait to suffer the same fate with Ornales during our pursuit operations.” MGen Mempin said.