As part of its ongoing efforts to combat the illegal online sale of chainsaws, on April 1, 2024, the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP ACG), in coordination with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), conducted entrapment operations across various regions in Mindanao that resulted in the arrest of six individuals within 24 hours. These operations were carried out by Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit (RACU) 11 in Davao City, RACU 13 in Cotabato Province, and RACU 12 in Butuan City.

The operations stemmed from the proactive cyber patrolling by the said RACUs, which targeted the illegal online sale of chainsaws. During which, they discovered posts on Facebook where suspects were selling chainsaws without the necessary permits. As a result of the operation, authorities confiscated four undocumented chainsaws, which will serve as evidence against the arrested individuals.

All six suspects now face charges for violating Section 7(a) of RA 9175 (Chainsaw Act of 2002) in relation to Section 6 of RA 10175 (Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012).

These operations were conducted in line with the directive of Police General Rommel Francisco D. Marbil, Chief of the PNP, to strengthen cyber patrolling and take immediate legal action against cybercriminals operating on social media platforms. Police Brigadier General Bernard R. Yang, Acting Director of the PNP ACG, commended the concerned RACUs for their successful entrapment operations. He also reminded the public of the dangers associated with illegal selling of chainsaw, stating, “The unlawful sale and use of chainsaws is not only a serious environmental violation but also poses significant risks to public safety and the economy. The PNP ACG will continue to monitor and investigate online activities related to the exploitation of natural resources.”