NBI Busts Criminal Network Recruiting Children for Violence

The National Bureau of Investigation said Tuesday it has uncovered a network of criminal "groomers" who systematically recruit minors to perpetrate violent crimes across the country. NBI Director Melvin Matibag disclosed the discovery at a press briefing, revealing that preliminary investigations indicate the suspects operate through group chat platforms to identify and exploit vulnerable children. According to Matibag, the recruitment network specifically targets minors aged 12 and above, indicating a deliberate strategy to exploit young people for criminal purposes. The grooming operations represent a significant escalation in how organized criminal elements are attempting to expand their networks by leveraging digital platforms and targeting the youth population. The NBI has not yet disclosed the number of suspects involved or the extent of violent incidents directly attributable to the group, though authorities indicated that further investigation is ongoing to identify all perpetrators and victims.