REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, COTABATO -- Government security forces arrested a suspected top ranking female leftist rebel leader in southern Philippines on Monday, a military official said Tuesday.

Philippine military officials identified the captured female leader of the New People's Army (NPA) as Mercy B. Maghinay, alias Joycee and Genevie. Maghinay was captured by soldiers following a brief firefight in the village of Guibo in Siayan town, Zamboanga del Norte province.

Captain Franco Suelto, spokesman of the Philippine Army's 1st Infantry Division, said soldiers recovered a shot gun and a hand grenade from the rebel leader.

Suelto said Maghinay is believed to be the top leader of local NPA group "Feliciano Bravo," which is said to be behind the burning of construction equipment in Sindangan town, Zamboanga del Norte province last November 19.

The NPA, armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines, has been waging war against the Philippine government since 1969.

Military estimates placed the NPA's strength at more than 5,000 men scattered in more than 60 guerrilla fronts throughout the country.

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