Mother Arrested for Online Sexual Exploitation of Children in Pampanga
A mother was taken into custody by authorities for the alleged online sexual exploitation of her two minor children. The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) confirmed that operatives from its Human Trafficking Division (NBI-HTRAD) executed a search warrant at the suspect’s home in Mabalacat, Pampanga on May 15.
During the raid, agents confiscated four smartphones and one laptop believed to contain evidence related to the case. The two young victims were immediately placed under the care of social workers from the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) of Mabalacat City. They are now being transferred to a secure shelter run by a non-governmental organization.
Evidence Found in Devices and Legal Charges Filed
Authorities conducted an onsite review of one of the seized smartphones, uncovering various materials classified as Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials (CSAEMs). Following the arrest, the mother faced charges filed with the Mabalacat City Prosecutor’s Office for violating Section 4, paragraph (r) of Republic Act No. 11930. This law specifically addresses the Anti-Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children and related offenses.
Investigation Linked to International Cooperation
The operation was initiated after NBI-HTRAD received a referral from the Royal Thai Police. This was coordinated through the National Coordination Center against Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children and Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials (NCC-OSAEC-CSAEM), which then forwarded the information to the Philippine Internet Crimes Against Children Center.
Reports indicate the referral followed a prior Thai police operation that resulted in the arrest of a British national named Benjamin John Wilkinson. His confiscated phone revealed that obscene images of two minor girls, believed to reside in Mabalacat, Pampanga, had been sent by the suspect. This discovery led to the subsequent investigation and arrest of the mother.
Authorities continue to work closely with international and local agencies to ensure justice and protect vulnerable children from online exploitation. Community leaders expressed hope that such coordinated efforts will deter further cases of abuse.
For more news and updates on online sexual exploitation of children, visit Filipinokami.com.