Woman nabbed, birds rescued in GenSan anti-wildlife trafficking op

A woman was arrested and two endangered hornbills were rescued in an anti-wildlife trafficking operation in General Santos City on Monday, July 6, 2026.

According to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-SOCCSKSARGEN (DENR-12), personnel of the CENRO General Santos City and General Santos City Maritime Police Station rescued two Southern Rufous hornbills during the buy-bust operation on Lote Highway, Lower Acharon, Barangay Calumpang.

The suspect was identified as alias “Aimae,” 32, a resident of Barangay Bula.

DENR-12 said the wildlife species rescued were found to be undocumented upon verification.

DENR-12 added that Southern Rufous hornbills are wildlife species protected under the law.

The hornbills were turned over to DENR-CENRO GenSan for safekeeping.

The suspect is facing charges for violation of the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act (RA 9147) in relation to the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 (RA 10175).

“DENR-CENRO GenSan reiterates its strong call to the public to refrain from engaging in the illegal collection, possession, and trade of wildlife species,” DENR-12 said.

“The agency emphasizes that the protection of biodiversity is a shared responsibility and encourages citizens to report any illegal wildlife activities to the proper authorities,” DENR-12 added. —GMA Regional TV News