Four people were arrested for allegedly engaging in illegal horse fight in Sta. Maria, Davao Occidental.

According to a report by GMA Super Radyo Davao, personnel of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Environmental Crime Division saw people gathering to watch the horse fight while patrolling the area.

The crowd dispersed immediately upon seeing the authorities.

Based on investigation, spectators reportedly paid entrance fees of up to P500, while betting amounts ranged from P500 to more than P5,000.

During the operation, the event announcer, organizer, and cashier were arrested.

The barangay chairman, identified as one of the organizers, managed to escape. However, he and the people arrested will face charges for alleged violation of the Animal Welfare Act and illegal gambling laws.

They have yet to issue a statement, as of this writing.

The horses were found with injuries in different parts of the body. They were were rescued.

(With reports from John Ryan Calonia, GMA Super Radyo Davao)