Philippine police form task force against illegal POGOs??

Jenny Ortiz July 22, 2024

Share it :

Philippine police form task force against illegal POGOs??

In a concerted effort to dismantle unlicenced Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), the Philippine National Police (PNP) has established a specialised task force. This move aims to tackle the rising issues linked to illegal Internet Gaming Licensees (IGLs), including espionage, human trafficking, and various forms of exploitation and fraud. According to local media report, Brig. Gen. Nicolas Salvador, acting PNP deputy chief for operations, emphasised the severe security concerns of unlicenced POGOs.

STF Skimmer’s mission??

Special Task Force (STF) Skimmer, led by PNP Deputy Chief for Operations Lt. Gen. Michael John Dubria, is set to spearhead intelligence gathering and coordinated law enforcement actions nationwide. Salvador outlined the task force’s goals: to dismantle illegal IGLs, uphold the rule of law, protect vulnerable individuals, and ensure national security through comprehensive intelligence operations and legal measures.

STF Skimmer, launched at Camp Crame in Quezon City, is structured with three main branches: administration, intelligence, and operations. It includes various PNP units such as the Anti-Cybercrime Group, Anti-Kidnapping Group, and Women and Children Protection Center. This task force aims to strengthen information networks with local communities and enhance cooperation with other government agencies.

Government and law enforcement coordination??

Meanwhile, Philippines Interior Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. recently convened with law enforcement agencies and local government units across Metro Manila and parts of Luzon. The aim was to streamline efforts to eradicate illegal POGOs. Senate President Francis Escudero highlighted the need for government agencies to effectively regulate these operators, pointing out failures in the system, particularly concerning the issuance of fraudulent documents.

Escudero criticised the inefficiency of agencies like the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) and the Bureau of Immigration (BI). He stressed the importance of accurate document issuance and the necessity of robust measures to curb fraudulent activities. The Senator also highlighted the lack of cooperation between the Department of Foreign Affairs and the BI, which has contributed to the unchecked proliferation of illegal aliens in the country.

Legislative action and law enforcement??

Philippine lawmakers have called for investigations into reports of Chinese nationals acquiring Filipino citizenship through fake birth certificates. Suspended Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo is under scrutiny for allegedly obtaining her citizenship through fraudulent means. Escudero’s criticisms extended to the BI, pointing out their failure to track and manage the influx of illegal aliens, many of whom are involved in unauthorized POGO operations.

Progress and plans??

Based on local media reports, law enforcement operations in the Philippines against illegal POGOs have led to the rescue of over 5,800 victims and the arrest of 1,175 suspects, predominantly Chinese nationals. Notably, two illegal POGO hubs were recently raided in Tarlac and Pampanga due to their involvement in human trafficking and other criminal activities.

Abalos noted a significant decrease in licenced POGO establishments, dropping from 200 to 43, largely due to intensive raids. He emphasised the role of local government units in maintaining order and ensuring that all online gaming establishments are properly licenced. Abalos announced plans for thorough inspections of these establishments, starting with the most suspicious, to prevent further illegal activities.?

Upcoming SiGMA event: Click?here?to find out all about SiGMA East Europe powered by Soft2Bet happening in Budapest, September 2024.