Troopers of the Army's 61st Infantry Battalion have been accused of human rights violations against civilians they suspect as members of the New People's Army, by militant and cause-oriented groups in Oriental Negros.

Angelito "Dondon" Delicano, 26, married, of Sitio Kabankalan, Barangay Tayak, Siaton town, and Jackrito Bolo, 40, of the same barangay have executed affidavits for the filing of cases against the elements of the Bravo Company, Philippine Army, for coercion, harassment, illegal arrest and for using them as human shield while in pursuit of CPP/NPA members Raul Villar alias Ka Drilon and Fernando Mahilum alias Jongjong, who were arrested Jan. 8.

Delicano and Bolo claimed their hands were tied behind their backs, together with Villar and Mahilum, and ordered to march for a long distance, despite their plea that they are just ordinary farmers in the area.

Delicano clarified that he allowed Drilon and Mahilum entry to his residence out of hospitality because they were asking for food. But it doesn't mean they are also members of the underground movement, he said.

Kabataan partylist provincial chairman Springzeal Bacarrro and Promotion of Church Peoples Response executive member Joy Tadeo said, the victims had sought their assistance in filing the case.*JG

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