Cyber Crime Wave Hits the Philippines

Seven South Korean nationals have been charged of operating an illegal enterprise offering internet betting in Philippines. The gang operated in a condominium building in Ortigas Center, Pasig City.

According to sources in Filipino gambling news, the seven suspects are identified as Jae Hoon Hwong, Yong Yeom Kim, Sung Hoon youn, Hyeok Choi, Yong Beom Cho, Jin Dong Kim and Jun Min Heok.

The Filipino police arrested the suspects in August. They also confiscated computers, laptops and mobiles that were used during the illegal operation.

Bureau of Immigration Commissioner Ricardo David said the suspects are currently detained at the Immigration Jail in Bicutan, Parañaque City while undergoing preliminary investigation.

Commissioner David also informed that the seven suspects are facing charges for violating the Philippine gambling laws and are also subject to deportation after their criminal sentences have been served. The seven Koreans will also be deported if the Filipino court drops the case against them.

This is the second occasion this year that South Koreans were arrested for running illegal online gambling rings. In June 2012 the authorities arrested five Korean nationals, allegedly running a very similar, possibly even the same gambling operation. The five Koreans arrested in June face several heavy charges, including the violation of the Philippines’ Anti-Gambling Law.

The Philippine government also deported 279 (!!!)Taiwanese cyber fraud suspects arrested for victimizing their compatriots on Wednesday. The Taiwanese embassy in Manila asked the Philippine authorities to send home its citizens due to the poor detention conditions. At least one Taiwanese detainee died and dozens fell ill at the gymnasium where they have been held since their arrest.

The Taiwanese nationals left from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) with two chartered flights.

Members of the criminal gang allegedly made calls and sent emails posing as police officers or state prosecutors. Their aim was to make victims believe that their bank accounts were being used by terrorists.

The scam targeted mostly elderly citizens and involved persuading victims to transfer their savings into bank accounts that were controlled by the gang.

Over 80 Chinese nationals are also suspected to be involved in the case. They are accused of the same charges and are also due deportation anytime this week.