KIDAPAWAN CITY, Cotabato — Authorities arrested a 65-year-old woman in an entrapment operation on July 15 for illegally selling a chainsaw through Facebook Marketplace, in violation of national laws on forestry and cybercrime.
The suspect was apprehended around 10:40 a.m. along the National Highway in Barangay Sudapin, Kidapawan City. She was caught red-handed offering a “36-inch chainsaw” in an online post and was arrested after completing a transaction with undercover operatives.
The joint operation was carried out by the Philippine National Police Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit 12 (RACU 12) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) 12 – PENRO Cotabato. The successful sting was led by PCPT Jonie T. Ocampo of RACU 12, in coordination with the Kidapawan City Police Station under PLTCOL Josemarie Ramirez Simangan, and DENR 12-PENRO personnel.
Authorities seized the chainsaw, the mobile phone used in the online negotiation, and the marked money used in the entrapment. The suspect was taken into custody and is now facing charges for violating Republic Act 9175 or the Chainsaw Act of 2002, and Republic Act 10175 or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.
According to investigators, the seized mobile phone will undergo digital forensic examination to uncover more details related to the illegal activity.
Law enforcers warned the public against unauthorized selling or possession of chainsaws, especially through online platforms, stressing the importance of securing proper permits under forestry regulations.