Davao city: The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) on Wednesday announced the arrest of eight Chinese nationals in a raid on an illegal POGO (Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators) hub in Davao City.

According to Philippines News Agency, NBI Director Jaime Santiago stated that the eight Chinese citizens, consisting of six men and two women, were apprehended on August 12 by agents from the NBI - Southeastern Mindanao Regional Office (NBI SEMRO XI). The arrests took place inside a residential property located on Gardenia Street, Montclair Highlands Subdivision, where the illegal POGO hub was operating.

The NBI reported the seizure of personal computers and multiple mobile phones from the site. These devices were allegedly used to conduct the prohibited gaming operations. The suspects are now facing charges for violations of Presidential Decree No. 1602 (Anti-Illegal Gambling Act), Republic Act No. 9160 (Anti-Money Laundering Act), and Republic Act 10364 (Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act).

The NBI SEMRO XI highlighted a developing trend in illegal POGO activities, noting that operators are now splitting into smaller groups and relocating to residential areas to evade detection. This strategic adaptation by operators emphasizes the need for ongoing community vigilance and swift law enforcement actions.

In a separate incident, the NBI disclosed that three women were rescued from a human trafficking operation at Francisco Bangoy International Airport, also in Davao City. The victims were reportedly recruited by individuals known as 'Lalang' and 'Yolly' under the guise of employment as entertainers in Singapore. They were scheduled to fly on a Scoot Airlines flight from Davao to Singapore but were prevented from boarding due to incomplete or improper travel documentation.