TLDR
- CIDG arrested 13 people, including one fugitive, during a June 15 raid in Ayala Alabang, Muntinlupa
- The operation began with a warrant for violations of the Access Devices Regulation Act and Cybercrime Prevention Act
- Police seized computers, laptops, phones, hard drives, and other electronic devices
- PAGCOR confirmed the online gaming platforms were unauthorized and violated the POGO ban
- Investigation is ongoing, with more suspects potentially to be identified from seized equipment
Philippine Police Arrest 13 in Muntinlupa Illegal Online Gambling Raid
Philippine law enforcement arrested 13 people at a private home in Ayala Alabang, Muntinlupa on June 15, after discovering an illegal online gambling operation during a routine arrest.
The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) initially arrived to execute an arrest warrant against one fugitive for violations of the Access Devices Regulation Act and the Cybercrime Prevention Act.
While carrying out that warrant, agents found an active illegal online gambling setup inside the residence. That discovery led to the arrest of 12 additional people on the premises.
Police have not released details on the roles of the 12 others who were detained. The operation was shut down immediately following the arrests.
Digital Equipment Seized at the Scene
Authorities confiscated a range of digital devices from the property. Items taken included computers, laptops, mobile phones, and hard drives.
These items are now being examined as part of the ongoing investigation. Police have not confirmed the exact number of devices seized or provided a breakdown of how each was being used.
The presence of multiple digital tools points to a structured setup. The operation was being run entirely from inside a private home.
PAGCOR Confirms Platforms Were Unauthorized
The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation confirmed that the online gaming platforms found at the site were not licensed. PAGCOR also stated the operation was in violation of the government’s existing ban on Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).
The POGO ban remains in effect across the country. Authorities have continued to monitor and act on suspected violations since the ban was put in place.
Wider Investigation Underway
The CIDG said the case is still under active investigation. Analysts are working through the seized equipment to map out how the operation functioned and who else may have been involved.
Police said additional suspects could be named as the review continues. No timeline has been given for when results of that review will be released.
This raid is part of a broader law enforcement effort targeting illegal online gambling across the Philippines.
The Muntinlupa bust shows how a standard arrest warrant can uncover a larger illegal operation. The fugitive’s arrest served as the entry point that exposed the entire setup.
Authorities have not yet confirmed whether the operation had connections to any known criminal network. Further details are expected as the investigation moves forward.
