CAMP OLIVAS, City of San Fernando, Pampanga – Police have arrested seven suspects in connection with the brutal murder of prominent online sellers Arvin and Lerma Lulu, which took place on October 4 in Santo Rosario, Mexico, Pampanga.
According to Police Brig. Gen. Redrico A. Maranan, chief of the Police Regional Office-3, a coordinated two-day operation from October 13 to 14 led to the apprehension of the suspects. The operation was carried out by the Mexico Municipal Police Station, the Pampanga Provincial Intelligence Unit (PIU), the Regional Mobile Force Battalion (RMFB), and the 1st and 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Companies (PMFC).
Among those arrested were Arnold Taylan, the suspected gunman, and Arnel Buan, his backrider, who were tracked down in Nueva Ecija. Their arrest quickly led to the identification and capture of five more individuals: Robert Dimaliwat, Rolando Cruz, Jomie Rabandaban, Sancho Nieto, and the alleged mastermind, Anthony Limon.
Initial investigations reveal that Limon, also an online seller, had a significant financial debt to the victims. He reportedly owed the couple P13 million, which investigators believe may have served as the motive for the crime.
During the arrests, police also recovered a cache of weapons from the suspects. The haul included nine firearms, consisting of three caliber 9mm pistols, five caliber .45 pistols, one .22 caliber rifle, and an air gun.
Police Brig. Gen. Maranan praised the efficiency and dedication of the units involved in the operation. He emphasized that the Philippine National Police (PNP) remains unwavering in its commitment to seeking justice for the victims and their families.
“Our mission to ensure the safety and security of our community remains our top priority,” Maranan said. “We will leave no stone unturned in our pursuit of justice and accountability for this heinous crime.”
Meanwhile, the mayor of Mabalacat City, Pampanga, where the victims resided, has reportedly offered a reward for the capture of the remaining suspects involved in the crime. The swift action by law enforcement authorities has brought some relief to the grieving community, as they continue to mourn the loss of the beloved couple.