Authorities in Cebu arrested 38 undocumented foreigners, believed to be Chinese nationals, during a raid on a suspected Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) facility in Barangay Saavedra, Moalboal.
The operation, conducted Wednesday, took place in a rented resort villa and involved the seizure of numerous computers and gadgets. Brig. Gen. Anthony Aberin, Police Regional Office (PRO) 7 chief, stated that the raid was part of a joint effort between local authorities, including the Bureau of Fire Protection, following reports of suspicious activities. The arrest highlights continued efforts against illegal POGO operations in the region.
Moalboal Mayor Inocentes Cabaron revealed that the investigation was triggered by a tip regarding the villa’s request for high-speed WiFi, a requirement often associated with POGO operations. Cabaron emphasized that they worked closely with local law enforcement and other agencies to monitor the situation before the raid.
Aberin reaffirmed the police force’s commitment to eradicating illegal POGO activities, stressing that collaboration with local government units (LGUs) and the community is vital to ridding Central Visayas of such operations. He added that POGO-like activities pose a significant threat to families and the country at large.
According to initial reports, the villa had been rented by the foreign nationals since September 28 under suspicious circumstances, leading to increased surveillance and subsequent intervention. The operation represents a significant move in the broader fight against illegal gaming activities across the region, with authorities vowing to continue their efforts to disrupt these operations.
In addition to the 38 arrests, a substantial number of gadgets and computers were seized from the villa, believed to be used for illegal online gambling activities. Further investigations are underway to uncover the full scope of the operations, and authorities are expected to pursue charges against those involved.
Aberin concluded by encouraging continuous vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement and local governments to ensure that Central Visayas remains free from these types of criminal enterprises.
