A regional police chief in Central Luzon is under investigation to hold illegal offshore gaming operators (POGOs) in his jurisdiction accountable. Philippine National Police chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Mabil announced the investigation after "unreported killings" at POGO hubs, suggesting they were running "scam factories". The investigation was launched because the incidents "were not handled appropriately".
As a result, all personnel of the Tarlac City Police Station Banban, the chief of the Porac City Police Station in Pampanga, and the director of the Pampanga Provincial Police Interim Office were relieved of their duties. Mabil questioned the cause of the deaths of foreigners in these areas and urged a thorough investigation, but stopped short of calling the policemen “protectors” of POGOs.
Another government official said authorities have discovered links between raided POGO centers in central Luzon. Major General Leo Francisco, director of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, pointed out that the process of applying for a search warrant related to computer data is ongoing and the results will be announced soon.
According to PAGCOR, there are only 43 legal POGOs operating in Kawit, Cavite and Metro Manila. The area came to public attention after a raid on POGOs possibly linked to Bamban City Mayor Alice Guo, who has been suspended from office for serious misconduct.
