Extent of destruction is a daunting sight in Zambo

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines  -  Clearing forces recovered dozens of unexploded fragmentation and 40mm rifle grenades in the continuation of their clearing operations in the conflict zone at Lustre Drive, Sta. Catalina Monday.

The clearing forces, led by the police and explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) units, have penetrated the interior of Lustre after initially recovering two unexploded 40mm of M203 inside the compound of Zamboanga City Medical Center.

Police Superintendent Kenneth Mission, sector 1 commander of the clearing operation,  said at least 33 rounds of M203 and 40mm and 15 hand grenades were recovered inside the Lustre Drive.

Mission said the recovered rounds of munitions will be examined through theirs lot markings to determine whether they belonged to the rebels or  the troops.

Mission said the troops were having  a hard time in clearing the conflict zones owing to the presence of the unexploded ordnance in many quarters in the area.

The crisis management committee (CMC) estimated the police to conduct the clearing operations within the next two weeks covering about 40 hectares of community.

During the second day of the clearing operation, the stretch of Lustre drive bore the signs of war with houses riddled with bullet and blast holes, fallen doors, windows and ceilings.

Fallen street signs, toppled electrical posts and power as well as busted water pipelines were among the most common sights in the area.

One police operative agreed that residents would be discouraged to return to their houses once they see the etrrible sight.

“This place needs total rehabilitation,” Mayor Ma. Isabelle Climaco-Salazar said  as she made her brief inspection of the area  with Special Action Force (SAF) chief Police Director Carmelo Valmoria.

Salazar said the destruction was unquantifiable.

The place was also heavy with the stench of rotten cadavers.

Chief Inspector Ariel Huesca, police regional spokesman said allowing the media in a guide visit will help them explain to the public the daunting task of clearing the area.

“At least the people will understand how the clearing operation is going on to make the place safe for the succeeding rehabilitation phase,” Huesca said. - Roel Pareño