The suspects behind the murder of online sellers Arvin and Lerma Lulu had been plotting the crime since July, according to the police. Mexico Police Station chief Joy Gollayan shared details of the case on the GMA show Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho (KMJS), revealing that the suspects initially intended to kill the couple at their home in Pampanga but changed plans due to its proximity to a barangay and police outpost.
“Sa confession ng ating mga suspek, sa ating middleman, they already planned the killings… way back July,” Gollayan said.
On October 15, authorities arrested seven suspects involved in the crime: Arnold Taylan, Arnel Buan, Robert Dimaliwat, Rolando Cruz, Jomie Rabandaban, Sancho Nieto, and alleged mastermind Anthony Limon. Limon and his wife reportedly even attended the couple’s wake, which raised further suspicion about their involvement.
Gollayan also mentioned that Limon’s wife is allegedly involved in the crime, particularly through communication and financial transactions related to the murder.
The couple, who started their beauty products business in 2015, were shot dead on October 4 while inside their car. Arvin was shot six times, while Lerma was shot three times. Their six-year-old child and Lerma’s teenage cousin were in the car but were unharmed. The motive for the killing is believed to be related to a P13 million debt that Limon owed the couple.
Limon is accused of hiring gunmen and paying P900,000 to carry out the crime. All suspects, including Limon’s wife, are facing two counts of murder. They could be sentenced to 40 years in prison if found guilty.
Police are also preparing to file additional charges in relation to firearms and explosives seized from the suspects, and they await a warrant of arrest for Limon’s wife.
