Man nabbed in Pasay for illegal online sale of ball python

A man was arrested in Pasay City earlier this week for allegedly selling a live ball python online, a violation of the country’s law banning the sale of exotic wildlife, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said.

In a statement on Wednesday, the PNP said its Maritime Group (MG) conducted an entrapment operation at a public parking area along Taft Avenue on Monday that led to the suspect’s arrest.

Recovered was a backpack that contained a live ball python valued at P7,000.

A mobile phone allegedly used to arrange the online sale, marked money, a glass enclosure, and documents presented to justify possession of the python were also seized from the suspect.

The suspect is facing charges for violating Republic Act 9147 or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act and related statutes.

PNP chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. warned that the sale of exotic wildlife, even on online platforms, is illegal and an environmental crime.

“Hindi po natin papayagan na gawing negosyo ang pagsira sa ating kalikasan. Wildlife trafficking is a serious offense, and we will act kapag may lumalabag sa batas. This operation shows that even small, seemingly quiet transactions are monitored and acted upon,” Nartatez said.

(We will not let the destruction of our environment become a business. Wildlife trafficking is a serious offense, and we will act when there are violations of the law. This operation shows that even small, seemingly quiet transactions are monitored and acted upon.)

He also urged the public to report any instances of owning, selling, or transporting wildlife without proper permits.

“Kung may alok na ganyan online, think twice – and report it. Ang proteksyon ng kalikasan ay responsibilidad nating lahat,” Nartatez said.

(if there are similar offers online, think twice – and report it. The protection of the environment is everyone’s responsibility.) — JMA, GMA Integrated News