3 Koreans arrested for online gambling

CEBU, Philippines — Three South Korean nationals were arrested last Saturday afternoon for allegedly running an online gambling operation at a building in Barangay Apas, Cebu City.

The suspects were identified as Hyeonhee Na, 25; Sanggwi Ji, 21; and Taejin Maeng, 21.

They were arrested as a result of a search authorized by the Regional Trial Court for allegedly violating the illegal numbers law and the cybercrime law.

The operation was hatched after surveillance that confirmed the illegal operation. The search was carried out by the Foreign National Liaison (Korean desk) led by Senior Insp. Irvin Belen and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group – 7 led by Chief Insp. Hector Amancia.

Operatives of the Regional Special Operations Group led by Senior Insp. Windell Abellana recovered computers and other evidence.

The evidence has been turned over to the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group for examination.

Abellana said investigation will be conducted to determine the three suspects’ connections in Cebu and the country.

They will also check if the three belong to a Korean syndicate whose nine members were arrested in Barangay Banilad, Cebu City in September last year also for illegal gambling.

They were allegedly involved in an underground illegal gaming scene in South Korea, which was operating in the country. (FREEMAN)