Amid the Philippine government's intensified crackdown on illegal online gambling and human trafficking, law enforcement raided a suspected illegal gambling operation in Makati City, Metro Manila, on April 10, arresting 86 foreign nationals, most of whom were Chinese citizens. This operation is also a key step ordered by the president to regulate the offshore gambling industry (POGO).
The Philippine National Police Criminal Investigation Group (CIDG), the Bureau of Immigration (BI), and the Makati City Police jointly struck at a high-rise residential building at 100 Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue in Makati City. Preliminary investigations indicate that the site was used for illegal online gambling and telecommunications fraud operations, and is suspected of illegally detaining foreign employees and forcing them to engage in unlawful activities.
The law enforcement action was triggered by a report from a Filipino woman who received a distress message from a Chinese friend, stating that she was confined at the location with restricted freedom of movement. Based on this, the police applied for a special task order and immediately launched the raid.
CIDG chief PMGEN Nicolas D. Torre III stated that the raid resulted in the arrest of 86 individuals, including 82 Chinese, 3 Vietnamese, and 1 Malaysian. Numerous computers, mobile phones, and related electronic devices were seized at the scene, suspected of being used for telecommunications fraud and fake investment operations.
One of the Vietnamese suspects, Tran, was identified as a manager of the illegal operation, responsible for a so-called "game support services" company. Preliminary investigations show that the company lured users to provide personal information through fake e-commerce platforms and virtual investment projects, subsequently committing fraud.
All arrested individuals have been transferred to the custody of the Bureau of Immigration Fugitive Search Unit (BI-FSU), facing charges under the Enhanced Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2012 (Republic Act No. 10364) and related provisions of the Philippine Immigration Act, including illegal employment, overstaying, and deception regarding the purpose of entry.
This raid also highlights the effectiveness of multi-agency collaboration under Executive Order No. 74 (EO 74). General Torre emphasized, "The police will continue to track down and eliminate any criminal groups that disrupt social order, especially those involved in offshore gambling, telecommunications fraud, and human trafficking. We will not be lenient."
He also called on the public to actively report suspicious activities, "A single tip could save many lives. We welcome the public to cooperate with us, and leave the rest to CIDG to handle thoroughly."
