Eight Chinese Nationals Arrested in Suspected Pogo Hub
DAVAO CITY — Authorities arrested eight Chinese nationals allegedly operating a Pogo hub inside a residential subdivision here, officials reported Tuesday afternoon. This crackdown on illegal offshore gaming comes amid growing concerns over such activities in the area.
“The operation was initiated by the agency after a homeowner’s complaint regarding suspicious activities inside a residential property,” a regional law enforcement source noted. Prompt surveillance confirmed the presence of illegal Pogo operations within a house located at Gardenia Street, Montclair Highlands Subdivision along Diversion Road in Buhangin District.
Details of the Operation and Seized Items
During the raid, agents confiscated 10 personal computers along with several mobile phones from the suspects. Authorities emphasized that these devices were being used to facilitate the illegal online gaming activities.
“Operators have been splitting into smaller groups and moving into residential areas to avoid detection following the nationwide crackdown,” a law enforcement official explained. This tactic has become an emerging pattern in illegal Pogo activities, complicating efforts to dismantle these operations.
Legal Charges and Ongoing Efforts
The eight individuals, comprising six men and two women, are now in custody. They face charges for violating Presidential Decree No. 1602 (Anti-illegal Gambling), Republic Act 9160 (Anti-Money Laundering), and Republic Act 10363 (Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons), authorities confirmed.
Community members urged vigilance, as illegal Pogo operations often accompany other crimes. “Crimes often accompany them, including money laundering, cybercrime, and human trafficking,” a local leader observed, highlighting the broader risks these activities pose.
Community Vigilance and Law Enforcement Response
The National Bureau of Investigation’s South-Eastern Mindanao Regional Office continues to encourage residents to report any suspicious activities in their neighborhoods. “There is a need for constant community vigilance and rapid law enforcement response,” a regional director stressed.
This operation reflects the bureau’s intensified campaign against offshore gaming, which threatens the country’s economy and national security. “The Bureau’s continued commitment to act swiftly on community intelligence, track evolving criminal tactics, and disallow illegal gambling operations to rebrand, resize, or relocate as a way to circumvent the law,” a senior official stated.
For more news and updates on offshore gaming operations, visit Filipinokami.com.