Manila: The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has apprehended an individual accused of selling counterfeit licenses from the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP). The suspect, Eddie Pleje, was detained by NBI-Cavite North District Office operatives during a meticulously planned operation on July 8, following a request for assistance from the CAAP Security and Intelligence Service.
According to Philippines News Agency, the operation was initiated due to a surge in online transactions involving the sale of fraudulent pilot licenses and other certifications supposedly issued by CAAP. NBI-CAVIDO North agents, in collaboration with CAAP personnel, executed an entrapment operation at a mall in Manila. This led to the arrest of Pleje and the seizure of counterfeit CAAP licenses for pilots and aircraft mechanics.
Pleje is facing charges under Article 172 paragraphs 1 and 2 (Falsification by Private Individuals and Use of Falsified Documents) of the Revised Penal Code (RPC), in connection with Republic Act 10175 (Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012), as well as Article 315 paragraph 2 (a) (Estafa) of the RPC. The NBI highlighted the risks posed by such counterfeit licenses, emphasizing the potential for aviation accidents and the threat to national interests.
The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines has condemned the illegal sale of fake licenses, expressing gratitude to the NBI for their prompt actions. CAAP reiterated the importance of rigorous training and certification processes for aspiring aviators, in accordance with the Philippine Civil Aviation Regulations and international aviation safety standards.
