TERRORIST
GROUP
PROFILES
MILNET
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New People's Army (NPA)
From: Patterns of Global Terrorism. United States Department of State Publication 10321
Description
The guerrilla arm of the Communist Party of the Philippines [(CCP)], an avowedly
Maoist group formed in December 1969 with the aim of overthrowing the
government through protracted guerrilla warfare. Although primarily a
rural-based guerrilla group, the NPA has an active urban infrastructure to
carry out terrorism; uses citybased assassination squads called sparrow
units. Derives most of its funding from contributions of supporters and so-
called revolutionary taxes extorted from local businesses.
Activities
The NPA is in disarray because of a split in the CPP, a lack of money, and
successful government operations. With US military gone from the country,
NPA has engaged in urban terrorism against the police, corrupt politicians,
drug traffickers, and other targets that evoked popular anger. Has vowed to
kill U.S. citizens involved in counterinsurgency campaign. Has assassinated
10 U.S. military and private citizens since 1987. Has also attacked U.S.
businesses in rural areas that refused to pay so-called revolutionary taxes.
Strength
16,000, plus support groups.
Location/Area of Operation
Philippines.
External Aid
Receives funding from overseas fundraisers in Western Europe and elsewhere;
also linked to Libya. Diverts some funding of humanitarian aid. [1996 ed. simply states: 'Unknown"]
Created: 04/02/95
Last Updated: 02/10/97
Page Maintained by George Goncalves - ggoncalves@nps.navy.mil