The Philippine National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has taken decisive action against human trafficking by charging 16 foreign nationals following a significant raid on a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) hub in Barangay Agus, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu.
Rescue operation and charges filed:
The operation, conducted on August 31st, led to the rescue of over 100 foreign workers who were reportedly deceived and coerced into participating in online scam operations. These workers, lured to the Philippines under false pretenses, found themselves trapped in exploitative work conditions.
Those charged include Zhao Shao Qi (aka Lao Fan), Zhao Long (aka Xiao Long), and others, with charges of qualified human trafficking filed by the NBI’s Central Visayas office. Alongside these foreign nationals, Zandrew Magdaluyo Cantarona, a Filipino, was charged as an accessory after he was discovered with passports from 51 Indonesian workers at the site.
The raid was catalyzed by a tip-off from the Indonesian embassy concerning three Indonesian nationals who had on September 2nd, asserting that the city authorities were previously unaware of the illmanaged to escape from the Tourist Garden Hotel, a location linked to the unlawful detainment and operation of the POGO hub.
During the raid, authorities rescued individuals from diverse nationalities including 93 Chinese, 69 Indonesians, six Burmese, and one Malaysian. Subsequent to the rescue, the Bureau of Immigration charged these workers for lacking proper documentation and unauthorized employment. They were transported to Manila on September 4th, 2024, in preparation for their deportation.
Local response and further measures:
As Asia Gaming Brief reports, Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Junard Chan ordered the immediate closure of the Tourist Garden Hotel. Following the inquest on Tuesday, the NBI-7 Director Renan Oliva highlighted ongoing investigations, including into a hotel employee suspected of attempting to smuggle out a box containing PHP8 million, which is linked to the illegal operations. The employee might face related charges as the investigation unfolds.
The case has drawn significant attention, with the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) involving five Filipino witnesses from a previously shut down POGO hub in Pampanga, who are set to testify against the accused and their associates.
Continuing efforts and future prospects:
As the NBI-7 continues its thorough investigation, additional charges including money laundering are considered against the suspects. Authorities are also seeking a search warrant to examine electronic devices seized during the raid, which may reveal further evidence of the criminal network and help identify more victims.
The ongoing legal and investigative actions underline a firm commitment by Philippine authorities to combat human trafficking and illegal online gambling operations, ensuring justice and protection for vulnerable foreign workers exploited within these clandestine operations.
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