Three Arrested in Online Sexual Abuse of Children Case in Davao Oriental
Authorities have arrested three individuals reportedly involved in the online sexual abuse and exploitation of children in Davao Oriental. During the operation, five minors were rescued by agents from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI). The arrests took place in Mati City through coordinated efforts of the NBI’s Human Trafficking Division, South Eastern Mindanao Regional Office, and Digital Forensic Laboratory.
The operation was carried out under a Warrant to Search, Seize, and Examine Computer Data issued by the Davao City Regional Trial Court. All five rescued minors were immediately placed under the care of the Department of Social Welfare and Development for proper interview and formal statement-taking.
Family Members Among Those Arrested
Sources said two of the arrested suspects are husband and wife, who are also the parents of three of the rescued children. The third suspect is the husband’s brother and father to two young girls. During the raid, investigators seized several electronic devices including mobile phones, a tablet, and a computer equipped with a webcam.
In addition, various sex toys of different sizes and forms were found in the residence. Onsite forensic examinations revealed that the seized gadgets contained materials depicting child sexual abuse and exploitation, along with chat logs showing communication with clients.
Investigation Linked to International Cooperation
The NBI disclosed that the operation was triggered after Belgian authorities referred a case involving a Filipina suspected of producing and distributing Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation Materials in exchange for money. Belgian police confirmed that a Belgian national had been arrested and was cooperating with the investigation.
The three arrested individuals will face charges under Section 4(r) of Republic Act No. 11930, known as the Anti-Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children and Anti-Child Sexual Abuse Materials Act of 2022. They will also be charged in relation to Section 6 of Republic Act No. 10175, the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.
This case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat online sexual exploitation of children, especially with the support of international cooperation. Local leaders noted the importance of vigilance and community support in protecting vulnerable minors from abuse.
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