Philippine Online Gaming Operators Busted in Raid, Suspected of Human Trafficking and Fraud
Manila Raid Yields 450 Arrests
Philippine police arrested over 450 people in a raid on an allegedly Chinese-run offshore gaming operator in Manila, the country’s anti-organised crime commission has announced. The operation, which took place on Thursday, resulted in the detention of 137 Chinese nationals.
Scam Centre Targeting Victims in China and India
Initial interrogations suggested that the suburban site had been operating as a scam centre, targeting victims in China and India with sports betting and investment schemes. The commission said that the site was using the online gaming platform as a front for illegal activities.
Organised Crime Groups Using Pogos as Cover
Philippine online gaming operators, or Pogos, have been banned by President Ferdinand Marcos last year. However, despite the ban, the commission has found that many Chinese nationals have continued to operate smaller-scale scam operations in the country. Pogos are believed to be used as cover by organised crime groups for human trafficking, money laundering, online fraud, kidnappings, and even murder.
International Concern Grows
International concern has grown in recent years over similar scam operations in other Asian nations, which are often staffed by trafficking victims tricked or coerced into promoting bogus cryptocurrency investments and other cons.
President Marcos Targets Pogos in Election Campaign
President Marcos has put Pogos at the centre of his campaign messaging in the run-up to May’s mid-term elections, framing predecessor Rodrigo Duterte’s alleged tolerance of the sites as evidence of a too-cozy relationship with China.
Series of Busts This Year
This is the latest in a series of busts this year, including one in January that saw around 400 foreigners arrested in the capital, including many Chinese nationals.
Global Scam Industry Worthy of Billions
The Washington-based think tank United States Institute of Peace has reported that online scammers target millions of victims around the world and rake in annual revenues of US$64 billion.
FAQs
What is the latest development in the Philippine online gaming operators’ saga?
The Philippine police have arrested over 450 people in a raid on an allegedly Chinese-run offshore gaming operator in Manila.
What is the purpose of the Pogo site?
The Pogo site is believed to be a front for illegal activities, including human trafficking, money laundering, online fraud, kidnappings, and even murder.
Why is the Philippine government cracking down on Pogos?
The Philippine government has banned Pogos, and the current administration is targeting them as part of its campaign against organized crime and corruption.
What is the global impact of online scammers?
Online scammers target millions of victims around the world and rake in annual revenues of US$64 billion, according to a Washington-based think tank.