Raid on home for loose firearms also turns up python, tiger, crocodiles

A raid on a home in Lubao, Pampanga did not just turn up the unlicensed firearms the police were expecting to see, but endangered and vulnerable species kept in private menagerie as well.

According to John Consulta’s report on “24 Oras” on Thursday, members of the Philippine National Police Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) seized various firearms including an AR submachine gun, a Glock pistol, a .22 caliber magnum revolver, and a .22 caliber rifle without serial number in suspect Dandel Valmoria’s residence.

“Wala syang LTOF [license to own and possess firearms], 'di siya licensed gun owner. Bilin ng ating Chief PNP at director ng CIDG to intensify campaign against loose firearms para di ito magamit sa darating na eleksyon,” said CIDG Region 3 Chief Police Lieutenant Sancho Mercado.

(He doesn’t have an LTOF. The PNP and CIDG chief asked us to intensify the campaign against loose firearms so they will not be used for the upcoming elections.)

Also found in the suspect’s house were vulnerable and endangered species including a tiger, a Burmese python, serpent eagles, civet cats, and saltwater crocodiles. There were all recovered with the help of personnel from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

“’Yung mother niya nag-signify ng intention to surrender the wildlife at ang maganda nito, inaksyunan ito agad ng ating PENRO [Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office],” Mercado said.

(His mother signified the intention to surrender the wildlife and what’s good was the PENRO took immediate action.)

GMA Integrated News sought comment from the suspect but he declined.

Police said the recovered firearms will be tested to see if they had been used for crimes.

“Na-charge namin siya ng violation ng Republic Act No. 10591...Ang ano ng piskalya sa kanya ay no bail considering that he possesses more than three or more firearms,” said Mercado.

(He was charged with violation against RA 10591. The fiscal said there will be no bail in his case considering that he possesses three or more firearms.) — Sundy Locus/BM, GMA Integrated News