Authorities arrested seven individuals for allegedly collecting endangered plants on Wednesday, March 25, in Barangay Poblacion West, Agno, Pangasinan.
A Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Officer reported the suspects collecting the protected plants for sale.
The suspects were found in possession of 18 uprooted Kamuning Bilog (Murraya paniculata), a species later confirmed by environmental officers. The plants were reportedly about to be loaded into a white L300 van when these were intercepted.
The suspects, residents of Agno and Anda, Pangasinan, failed to provide any legal documents for their activity. The suspects were taken to the Agno police station for documentation and proper legal procedures.
The seized plants will be turned over to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources office in Alaminos City for safekeeping.
Authorities warned the public that collecting, transporting, or trading protected wildlife and plant species without proper permits is strictly prohibited under the law.