Amid intense combat and siege operations by Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) units in barangays in Samar, the New People’s Army (NPA)-Western Samar (Arnulfo Ortiz Command) were able to launch snipe and counter-attack operations.

On September 16, Red fighters fired at 87th IB elements who were camping in Barangay Canvais, Motiong, Samar. According to initial reports from villagers, the military trooper on guard was wounded.

On September 14, Red fighters were able to fire first when they encountered an operating unit of the 46th IB in Barangay Dugungan, Jiabong. One 46th IB soldier was killed in the encounter, while another was reported seriously wounded.

On September 11, a unit of NPA-Western Samar thwarted an attack by the 46th IB against their camp in Barangay Salvacion, Jiabong. According to the NPA, the soldiers wore civilian clothes and pretended to be Red fighters to deceive the masses. The Red fighters seized the initiative in the battle and actively defended against the enemy.