PH solon seeks further POGO investigation following Pasay raid

An probe into the potential involvement of the recently closed Philippine Offshore Gaming Operation (POGO) firm in additional alleged unlawful operations has been sought by Senator Sherwin Gatchalian of the Philippines.

Gatchalian claims that the raid on Smart Web Technology Corporation, which was under the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) and had an Internet Gaming License (IGL), proves that criminal syndicates are still active in the country.

The senator said that “organized criminal syndicates are clearly active in our nation, as evidenced by human trafficking victims and the presence of a torture chamber.” Due to their ability to sway law enforcement, these gangs are able to operate openly, even in close proximity to police stations.”

Gatchalian intends to move quickly this week, having submitted a resolution to the Senate committee for investigation.

Approximately 700 persons, the most of whom were Chinese, were saved during a raid on a POGO operation in Pasay City in late October. The six-story building had a pharmacy, a cafeteria, nine KTV rooms, and other services, and there was strong evidence that the building was used for sex trafficking.

As a result of continuing investigations, 27 police officers—including the chief of police in Pasay City—have lost their positions.

Original story by: Asia Gaming Brief