Cebu: Nine Chinese nationals were arrested for human trafficking and illegal operations of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) and Internet Gaming Licensees (IGLs) in Cebu province. The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) news release Friday identified the suspects only by their first names -- Cai, Lei, Wei, Tawei, Shiao, Ye, Ying, Lu, Yin. They were arrested in the raid of an alleged POGO and scam hub at Silver Sea Subdivision in Alang-alang, Mandaue City on Wednesday.

According to Philippines News Agency, all arrested Chinese nationals failed to present passports and valid documents supporting their stay or work in the country. The raid was conducted by the CIDG Mandaue City Field Unit, Regional Intelligence Unit-Central Visayas, and other police units. CIDG acting chief Brig. Gen. Romeo Macapaz said the operation stemmed from a distress call for assistance from a female Filipino who was allegedly a trafficking victim.

She was later rescued along with her Filipino co-workers. They reported being forced to work and that they were not allowed to leave their workplace. Authorities discovered and confiscated information technology and various electronic devices, which have been turned over to the Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit for forensic examination.

The suspects will face charges for violations of Republic Act Nos. 9208 (Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act) and 11862 (Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act), and immigration laws. "This successful operation underscores the national government and CIDG's intensified efforts against illegal POGOs and IGLs," Macapaz said in a statement. "We urge the public to report all suspicious activities in your localities and your CIDG will do the rest."