The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) in the Philippines arrested two Chinese nationals in Parañaque City, accusing them of forcing a woman to participate in illegal gambling activities, in violation of the "2022 Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act Expansion" (Republic Act No. 11862).
The case was initiated after a friend of the victim reported that the victim was forced to work inside the Aseana One building on Bradco Avenue in Parañaque City, and was required to meet a specific "deposit quota" daily to participate in illegal gambling activities. Additionally, the victim was threatened with her life, as the suspects knew her address and warned her not to call the police.
NBI officials acted immediately upon receiving the report and successfully rescued the victim on the 7th floor of the Aseana One building. The victim subsequently identified the two suspects—Zeng Moukang and Zeng Mouwei—and accused them of illegal detention and intimidation. The suspects were arrested at the scene and were informed of their rights with the assistance of a Chinese translator.
The case has been formally filed under Section 4(a) of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act and has been forwarded to the prosecutorial office for preliminary investigation. The NBI stated that the case is still under further investigation, and efforts to gather evidence and track other individuals involved are ongoing.
