Police Chief Calls for Surrender in Human Trafficking Case
Major General Nicolas Torre III, the incoming national police chief, has called on all individuals accused in a high-profile human trafficking case linked to a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) in Pampanga to turn themselves in. This appeal comes as authorities continue to pursue those involved in the non-bailable charges filed after a raid at Lucky South 99 Outsourcing Inc. in Porac, Pampanga.
Torre leads the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), which recently apprehended the second of 51 suspects charged with Qualified Trafficking in Persons. The case centers on the alleged exploitation of workers at the POGO facility during last year’s operation.
“I urge the other 49 co-accused to surrender yourselves to the CIDG and authorities because the tracker teams are pursuing you 24/7 and will catch you anytime soon,” Torre said. He emphasized the relentless efforts of enforcement teams in tracking down all suspects involved.
Details of Recent Arrests and Charges
On May 29, law enforcement arrested Mariano, a security guard, at the Clark Development Corporation’s Public Safety Division in Clark, Pampanga. Mariano was reportedly assigned as security personnel at the Lucky South 99 Outsourcing Inc. during the time the alleged trafficking offenses occurred.
Previously, CIDG operatives detained the operations officer from a security agency responsible for protecting the raided POGO hub. In total, 51 individuals, including a former presidential spokesperson and another high-profile figure, face charges for violating Republic Act 9208, which deals with trafficking in persons.
The Angeles City Regional Trial Court Branch 118 in Pampanga issued arrest warrants with no bail recommended for the accused. Following this, the CIDG formed specialized tracker teams dedicated to locating and apprehending the remaining suspects.
International Cooperation and Ongoing Efforts
Reports indicate that one key suspect, reportedly abroad in Europe, is being pursued with international assistance. The Philippine government, through the Department of Justice, is coordinating with Interpol to facilitate the suspect’s capture. Additionally, efforts to revoke the suspect’s passport are underway to prevent further evasion.
As the investigation and manhunt continue, authorities remain committed to enforcing the law and securing justice for victims. Torre’s public plea highlights the urgency and seriousness with which the government addresses human trafficking linked to POGO operations.
For more news and updates on human trafficking case, visit Filipinokami.com.