CIDG files illegal detention raps vs 8 POGO workers

The Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) filed a complaint for serious illegal detention against eight Chinese nationals allegedly involved in the illegal operations of a raided Philippine offshore gaming operator (POGO) hub in Bamban, Tarlac.

- DAPHNE GALVEZ

PNP-CIDG acting director Brig. Gen. Nicolas Torre III said the complaint stemmed from the allegations of two Chinese complainants who claimed they were made to work in the Bamban POGO against their will.

"They (Chinese complainants) wanted to decline from working and wanted to go home but they were barred from doing so," he told reporters.

Torre did not give the names of the eight respondents, who he said are already under custody for other cases previously filed. The two complainants are also under CIDG's custody and protection.

He said the respondents are personnel in the Bamban POGO who are holding positions that "required them to take control of these victims."

Meanwhile, 17 Chinese nationals with suspected links to a POGO were arrested for operating a suspected scam hub in Parañaque City yesterday.

Agents of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) apprehended the suspects inside four units of a condominium complex in Barangay Tambo.