NBI Davao busted an illegal POGO hub in Panabo City, arresting 59 individuals including Chinese and Malaysians, amid gov't crackdown on online gambling.
The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Davao raided an illicit Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) hub in Panabo City, Davao del Norte. The operation, conducted on December 6, 2024, resulted in the arrest of 59 individuals, including Chinese and Malaysian nationals.
The warehouse, formerly used for agricultural storage, had been repurposed to facilitate illegal online gambling activities. The raid was triggered by a tip from a Malaysian POGO worker, identified only as Ruby Lim, who had been abducted and held captive at the site.
The POGO hub, which has been operating for the past three months, was allegedly owned by a Chinese firm, Jinsheng International.
NBI-Davao spokesperson Ely Leano revealed that the arrested individuals were believed to be remnants of POGO operations that had been shut down in Luzon. He was quoted as saying in a Manila Bulletin report, "It cannot be denied that there are POGO hubs in the region."
The operation highlights the persistence of illegal POGO activities in the Philippines, despite government efforts to curb the industry. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s Executive Order 74, which imposes a ban on offshore and internet gaming by December 31, 2024, aims to address concerns over illegal activities, tax evasion, and social issues linked to POGOs.
NBI Director Archie Albao underscored the gravity of the situation, stating, "If there is a worker who refuses to cooperate, they will inflict harm on you. They will be tortured. This Ruby Lim wanted to escape but she managed to send messages to authorities."
Authorities seized various items from the warehouse, including computers, mobile phones, passports, firearms, ammunition, and handcuffs. A cyber warrant will be issued to examine the seized electronic devices.
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