In the Freeport Area of Bataan (Bataan), authorities conducted a surprise inspection on October 31, seizing a large facility suspected of engaging in fraudulent activities and rescuing nearly 1000 employees.
This operation was carried out by the Special Action Force (SAF) and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) of the Philippine National Police (PNP), under the guidance of Vice President Guevarra, and led by the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC).
Based on a search warrant issued by the Malolos Court on October 29, police stormed the facility located in the CentroPark area of Sitio Cabog-cabog, Balanga City, Bataan Province. The operation was personally directed by the regional police office director of Central Luzon, Maranan.
Officials stated that the site was involved in romance scams, internet fraud, and illegal online gambling activities. The park contained dormitories and six buildings used for various operational projects.
PAOCC spokesperson Gaston noted that although the company held a license issued by the Authority of the Freeport Area of Bataan (AFAB), it did not have the online gambling operation license required by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR).
Gaston further stated: "These companies are part of Central Park, owned by Bataan Central First Company, and the property is part of the Camaya land development project, hence the main lessor is Camaya Land Development Company." Currently, Bataan Central First Company employs about 1500 workers, mostly Filipinos, and about 50 foreign workers will be detained separately from the Filipino employees.
