The National Bureau of Investigation-Cybercrime Division (NBI-CCD) discovered illegal cyber-related activities that resulted to the apprehension of 17 foreign nationals in Makati City.
Of the arrested suspects, fifteen are Chinese nationals, while two others are Malaysian and Taiwanese nationals.
NBI Director Jaime B. Santiago reported that CCD operatives disrupted an organized cybercrime group engaged in extensive online scamming operations.
On October 11, in coordination with local police, CCD operatives carried out a Warrant to Search, Seize, and Examine Computer Data (WSSECD) issued by RTC Branch 147 at an establishment on Mascardo Street, Tejeros, Makati City.
Several electronic devices, including desktop computers, laptops, and cell phones used in illegal online activities, were discovered. The seized items were subjected to further forensic examination.
The onsite forensic examination and controlled viewing of the electronic devices uncovered digital evidence, tools, and applications linked to social engineering schemes, unauthorized access, device misuse, computer-related forgery, and fraud.
The arrested foreign nationals will face charges for violations of RA 12010, or the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act, and RA 10175, or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012. The suspects are currently detained at the NBI office.
