Central Luzon regional police director Brig. Gen. Redrico Maranan presides a press conference to announce the arrest of those involved in the killing of couple Arvin and Lerma Lulu. (photo: PRO3)
Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil, chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), lauded the Central Luzon regional police for its quick response in resolving the killing of online traders Arvin and Lerma Lulu who were gunned down inside their car in Mexico, Pampanga on Oct. 4.
Marbil said the arrest of seven people behind the killing of the couple could also lead to the solution of at least 12 more gun-for-hire killings as the suspects have already confessed their involvement in the death of other people in Pampanga, Bataan, and Nueva Ecija.
“Our message is clear: the PNP stands as the protector of the Filipino people. We will remain vigilant and relentless in the pursuit of justice, for it is through justice that we restore peace and order in our communities,” said Marbil.
“Justice cannot wait. The PNP will stop at nothing to ensure that every victim of violence receives the justice they deserve. The swift arrest of these suspects is a testament to our unwavering commitment to uphold the rule of law and protect the innocent," he added.
Police Regional Office 3 Brig. Gen. Redrico Maranan identified the arrested suspects as Arnold Taylan, the alleged gunman; and, Arnel Buan, the backrider of the motorcycle. They were arrested in a follow-up operation in Nueva Ecija.
Maranan said the initial statements provided by Taylan and Buan led to the arrest of five other suspects identified as Robert Dimaliwat, Rolando Cruz, Jomie Rabandaban, Sancho Nieto, and the alleged mastermind, Anthony Limon.
According to Maranan, it was Limon who ordered the hit for P900,000 due to the P13 million he owed to the victims. Limon was collared in Apalit, Pampanga.
Marbil personally lauded Maranan for leading the efforts in swiftly apprehending the mastermind and other suspects.
“Violence, driven by greed or any other motive, has no place in our society. The quick resolution of this case highlights the capability and dedication of our police force to bring those responsible to justice,” said Marbil.
“We will not allow those who commit heinous crimes to escape the long arm of the law. We owe it to the victims and their families to act swiftly and decisively," he added.
All seven suspects connected to the case are now facing double murder charges, while further investigations are underway to determine the involvement of additional individuals, including the mastermind’s spouse.