The Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group has announced the arrest of four Korean nationals in Cebu City for their alleged involvement in an illegal online gambling operation. The arrests were made public during a press conference held on Wednesday, March 11, 2026.
Intelligence-Driven Operation Leads to Arrests
According to ACG director Brigadier General Wilson Asueta, the operation was intelligence-driven and executed on the evening of March 2. Police conducted the raid at a condominium complex under the authority of a search warrant issued by Branch 7 of the Cebu Regional Trial Court.
Asueta detailed the investigative process, stating, "Aside from the tipsters, we conducted cyber-patrolling, then ground validation through surveillance, which is why we were able to pinpoint where this condo operation was taking place."
Suspects and Operation Details
The arrested foreigners have been identified as "Song," aged 38; "Kung," 35; "Yun," 29; and "Lun," 38. Authorities revealed that the group had been operating for nearly five years, catering to both local and international bettors through a dedicated website.
The illegal online platform was reportedly advertised on various social media channels, expanding its reach to potential users. Asueta warned bettors about the risks involved, explaining, "Those who place bets there may win at the beginning, but later on you will still lose because they can manipulate the system since they are not regulated."
Legal Proceedings and Coordination
Police are currently coordinating with the Bureau of Immigration to verify the legitimacy of the Korean nationals' stay in the Philippines. Charges have been filed against the suspects for violation of Republic Act 9287, the illegal gambling law, in relation to Section 6 of RA 10175, the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.
This case highlights ongoing efforts by Philippine authorities to combat illegal online activities and enforce cybercrime regulations, particularly in urban centers like Cebu City.
