Seven arrested in Quezon City online gambling raid in the Philippines
Philippine authorities have arrested seven suspects in Quezon City for allegedly running an illegal online gambling operation.
The operation was led by the Department of Information and Communications Technology through its Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center unit, with support from the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office and the Philippine National Police Station 14.
The raid followed a complaint filed by the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office Shield Department under General Manager Mel Robles. Station Commander Lt. Col. Jefry Gamboa led the operation with the local police.
Police seized mobile phones and other electronic devices believed to have been used in the scheme. The suspects now face charges under the Cybercrime Prevention Act (RA 10175), Presidential Decree No. 1602 on illegal gambling, and related laws.
Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office Shield Department Chairman Orlando Malaca said illegal gambling weakens government revenues intended for health and charity programs while exposing Filipinos to fraud and financial risk.
Henry Aguda, Department of Information and Communications Technology Secretary, said the operation was part of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to clean up cyberspace. He added, “This is the president’s directive – clean up cyberspace of illegal activities.”
Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center Acting Executive Director Renato Paraiso added that the agency would remain strict in pursuing cybercrime cases, citing the risks posed to vulnerable groups.
The suspects are undergoing investigation proceedings, and forensic analysis will be done for the seized devices.
Earlier in the month, South Korean authorities underwent their largest ever repatriation of criminals, repatriating 49 people from the Philippines. The suspects were accused of fraud, operating online casinos, and other crimes.
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Charlotte Capewell brings her passion for storytelling and expertise in writing, researching, and the gambling industry to every article she writes. Her specialties include the US gambling industry, regulator legislation, igaming, and more.
