Courtesy of First Infantry “Tabak” Division
MANILA — Government operatives rounded up some 200 foreigners and seized around 2,000 cellphones in an anti-scam operation in Alicia and Siay towns in Zamboanga Sibugay.
The inter-agency operation was prompted after intelligence-gathering on the alleged human trafficking, immigration violations, and other transnational crimes in the area.
Courtesy of First Infantry “Tabak” Division
Investigators are looking into the possibility that some of the intercepted foreigners had been victims of human trafficking, exploitation, coercion, illegal recruitment, and restriction of movement in the area.
“Those who may have been victimized must receive the protection and assistance they need, while those found responsible for violations of our laws must be held accountable through the proper legal process,” said MGen. Yegor Rey Barroquillo Jr., commander of the Joint Task Force ZAMPELAN and 1st Infantry Division.
Courtesy of First Infantry “Tabak” Division
Authorities also seized various computers, laptops, and other devices believed to be linked to scam activities.
The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and Bureau of Immigration (BI) led the operation with the cooperation of the Philippine Army and other agencies.
Courtesy of First Infantry “Tabak” Division