Manila, June 11 -- The Surigao del Norte Police Provincial Office (SDNPPO) announced on Wednesday the arrest of a former high-ranking New People's Army (NPA) commander who had eluded capture for years and is facing multiple criminal charges in court.

In a report, SDNPPO Director Col. Warren Dablo identified the suspect as Pio Gato Jr., also known as alias Jama, 41.

Gato is described as the former commanding officer of NPA Guerrilla Front 16-A, operating under the North Eastern Mindanao Regional Committee.

Gato was apprehended on Monday during a manhunt operation carried out by the 1st Surigao del Norte Provincial Mobile Force Company (1st SDN PMFC) in Barangay Talisay, Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur.

Dablo said the suspect has outstanding ...