Authorities arrested at least 70 individuals during a raid on an online investment scam hub located in Barangay San Roque, Antipolo, Rizal.
The operation was led by the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG), in coordination with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Rizal Police Provincial Office, and Antipolo City Police.
The raid was conducted under a Warrant to Search, Seize, and Examine Computer Data issued against the building owner identified only as alias “Arthur,” who allegedly violated Section 26 of Republic Act No. 8799 or the Securities Regulation Code, in relation to Section 6 of RA No. 10175 or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.
The PNP-ACG’s Cyber Response Unit had been monitoring the operations since last year, following reports from an Australian national representing IFW Global about a suspected investment scheme targeting foreigners.
Among those apprehended during the raid were minors, prompting further investigations.
In response, the PNP assured the public that similar operations will continue to be conducted against illegal cyber activities.