NBI eyes estafa charges against pet crematorium

The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) is preparing to file criminal charges against at least five individuals implicated in the improper dumping of dead pets in San Jose del Monte, Bulacan, NBI director Melvin Matibag announced Thursday.

Speaking at a press conference, Matibag stated that the agency’s Environmental Crimes Division (NBI-EnCD) has gathered sufficient evidence to submit formal complaints to prosecutors.

“We have evidence already to file cases before the prosecution, and the evidence is strong,” Matibag said. “We will let the Department of Justice identify who should become witnesses to further establish who holds liability.”

The announcement follows an investigation ordered earlier this week into Ahjay Paws Aftercare Pet Crematorium, located in Bacoor, Cavite, which authorities linked to the dumped animal remains in Bulacan.

Matibag said investigators are eyeing estafa and violations of the Consumer Act of the Philippines, among other charges, against at least five prospective respondents.

The NBI chief also instructed the NBI-EnCD to request an Immigration Lookout Bulletin Order from the Department of Justice to monitor the suspects and prevent potential flight from the country.