NBI Raids Alleged Hub of Lapu-lapu POGO Boss

October 25, 2024 Philippines Crime & Legal

The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI)-Cebu District Office conducted a second raid inside the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) hub in Brgy. Agus, Lapu-Lapu City. The October 23, 2024 raid focused on the room and office occupied by Zhao Shou Qi, a Chinese national involved in suspected illegal activities.

A search warrant, granted on October 22, allowed NBI agents to search Zhao’s office and bedroom in Building 8 of the hub. This followed his arrest last August.

Authorities confiscated computer systems, financial documents, SIM cards, cash, and vaults believed to contain evidence of illegal POGO activities.

The evidence collected could support ongoing criminal charges and an anti-money laundering case against Zhao and his associates, according to a SunStar report.

“We are hoping that the items we got will support the case because it will establish that Mr. Zhao has direct control and has supervision over the premises,” Pura told SunStar.

Who is Zhao Shou Qi?

Zhao was one of 169 foreign nationals initially caught during an August 30 raid, originally a rescue operation for detained Indonesians, which uncovered alleged human trafficking and illegal online activities. Zhao, who claims to have rented only part of the premises, is among 169 foreign nationals detained during the operation.

At a Senate hearing, Zhao admitted offering P1 million to the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) in exchange for a “separate arrangement” for his elderly wife and granddaughter, though he denied it was a bribe.

Authorities have filed multiple charges against Zhao and others, including human trafficking and potential violations of anti-money laundering laws. Zhao’s involvement in the Lapu-Lapu hub, as well as his connections to other illegal POGO operations, is under investigation. Investigations revealed that Zhao, along with 15 other foreigners, allegedly operated the POGO hub and are now facing charges of qualified human trafficking.

The NBI plans to request court approval to open the seized vaults, which may hold more incriminating information, adding that the landlord was “willing to cooperate” with the investigation.
“He was there and inspected the premises. He is willing to cooperate with the investigation to prove that he has nothing to do with the illegal operations except as lessor,” he said.

Authorities have intensified efforts to crack down on illegal POGO hubs, with several raids conducted nationwide.

The link between POGO hubs and human trafficking has raised alarms, prompting more government action. The POGO sector has faced scrutiny for its questionable operations and the effect on local communities, sparking debates over regulation.