World · Philippines Bureau
51 suspects from major Zamboanga POGO raid transferred to Manila
Fifty-one individuals, predominantly foreign nationals, detained in a significant illegal gaming operation bust in Zamboanga Sibugay are being transported to the capital for further processing. The transfer marks the region's largest enforcement action against unlicensed online gaming operations.
LSN Philippines ·
PAGADIAN CITY—Authorities have begun moving 51 suspects apprehended in a major raid on an illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) facility in Zamboanga Sibugay to Manila for investigation and prosecution, according to military officials.
The detainees, primarily foreign nationals, were transported from Zamboanga Sibugay to Pagadian Airport on Tuesday afternoon for their flight to the capital, said Maj. Noeilio Brigole, spokesperson for the Army's 1st Infantry Division.
The operation represents the largest crackdown on illegal gaming operations conducted in Zamboanga Sibugay. Philippine authorities have intensified efforts to combat unlicensed POGO activities, which operate outside government regulation and licensing frameworks.
The suspects are expected to face charges related to illegal gambling operations. The case underscores ongoing coordination between military and law enforcement agencies in the Mindanao region to suppress criminal activity associated with unauthorized online gaming enterprises.