Philippines gaming regulator PAGCOR says it has ordered an offshore gaming service provider in Las Piñas City, located in Metro Manila, to cease and desist from all activities while the Philippine National Police (PNP) completes an investigation into suspected illegal actions.
In a statement, the agency revealed it has issued Xinchuang Network Technology, Inc with a show cause order to “explain in detail” its defense against allegations it is involved in human trafficking, cryptocurrency and love scams.
PAGCOR said it had uncovered potential evidence of such activities after receiving a series of reports of alleged criminal activities inside the operating site. The PNP-Anti Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) put the POGO (Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator) under surveillance for almost a month before raiding the office on 26 June.
During the raid, authorities rescued 1,534 Filipinos and over 1,000 foreign nationals from China, Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Taiwan and Singapore believed to be human trafficking victims among others. The foreign nationals were turned over to the custody of their respective embassies, PAGCOR said.
Authorities also seized computer units, SIM cards, cellular phones and passports that will all be subjected to forensic investigation.
“We condemn all criminal activities that violate Philippine laws and human rights – regardless of nationality,” said PAGCOR Chairman and CEO, Alejandro H. Tengco.
“As we have always said before, PAGCOR will not hesitate to impose sanctions on erring licensees and accredited service providers. Similarly, we will continue to cooperate with our partner law enforcement agencies to ensure that responsible and regulated gaming is observed.”
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