The Philippine National Police (PNP) Anti-Kidnapping Group (AKG) reported that since January 2024, there have been 40 kidnapping cases recorded, 10 of which involved Chinese citizens, with all victims abducted by suspects of Chinese nationality.
Police investigations indicate that these cases are mostly related to underground gambling and online fraud, particularly involving offshore gaming operations (POGO). A recent case that has garnered attention is the disappearance of a Chinese citizen on February 20 in Taguig City, which is still under investigation.
The Philippine police emphasize that they are conducting comprehensive investigations to clarify the truth of the cases and ensure that justice is served. The police also stated that crimes involving illegal detention, financial fraud, and human trafficking are under close surveillance.
Rommel Francisco Marbil, the Chief of the Philippine National Police, stated in a declaration: "The police are fully committed to combating all types of criminal activities and dismantling criminal networks that threaten public security. We are firmly upholding the rule of law to ensure that all criminals receive the punishment they deserve."
He also urged the public to rely on official information and not to believe unverified reports, mentioning that the police are tracking all leads to uncover the truth behind the cases.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) revealed that a special tracking team has been established to enhance the crackdown on illegal POGO operations. Despite the Philippine government officially banning POGO for over a month, some operators are still secretly active.
Colonel Marlon Quemno, head of the National Capital Region Criminal Investigation Unit, pointed out that there are still about 15 to 20 people involved in small-scale illegal gambling gangs operating in a "guerrilla-style" in the Greater Manila Area.
In 2023, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos ordered a complete ban on POGO due to some operators being implicated in human trafficking, money laundering, online fraud, kidnapping, and even murder. Although the ban has taken effect, law enforcement still faces challenges and continues to carry out enforcement actions to ensure the complete eradication of related illegal activities.
