KIDAPAWAN CITY (January 18) — Police arrested an alleged online child trafficker and rescued eight vulnerable minors during an entrapment operation in Carmen, North Cotabato, authorities said Saturday.
The suspect, described only as an adult male involved in online child exploitation, was apprehended around 5:15 p.m. on Thursday in Purok 6, Liliongan village following a covert online exchange that led to an on-site intervention.
Police said the rescued children included three female minor victims and five children considered at risk. The operation also involved the service of a Warrant to Search, Seize, and Examine Computer Data, underscoring the digital nature of the alleged crimes.
The minors were immediately turned over to the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office – Carmen for assessment, care and initial intervention.
Investigators from the Women and Children Protection Center – Mindanao Field Unit conducted Video In-Depth Disclosure Interviews (VIDI) to document the children’s accounts as part of the ongoing probe.
The suspect is now in custody at the Carmen Municipal Police Station and faces the filing of criminal charges.
Police urged parents and communities to stay vigilant online and report suspicious activity, noting that swift reporting can help stop abuse and protect children from harm.
