DAVAO CITY – The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) along with other law enforcement groups conducted a series of raids on a Philippine offshore gaming operator (POGO) hub in Bagac, Bataan, suspected of involvement in various criminal activities.
As of 9:30 PM, CIDG Director Brigadier General Nicolas Torre III reported that approximately 697 workers were arrested during the operation, the majority of whom were Filipino nationals, along with foreign nationals from China, Vietnam, and Malaysia.
The raid was carried out following a search warrant issued by the Malolos Regional Trial Court Branch 81, which found probable cause that violations of Republic Act 9208, also known as the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act, as amended by RA 10364, were occurring within the compound.
In addition to the CIDG, the operation involved teams from the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), the Philippine National Police (PNP), and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
They targeted the Centro Park, a large complex located in Barangay Parang.
Authorities are continuing their investigation into the activities taking place at the POGO hub, with a focus on identifying potential trafficking victims and ensuring their protection.
The raid highlights ongoing efforts to combat illegal activities associated with POGO operations in the country.
Edith Z Caduaya studied Bachelor of Science in Development Communication at the University of Southern Mindanao.
The chairperson of Mindanao Independent Press Council (MIPC) Inc.
