NBI-11 seizes over 50 computers in POGO hub raid

Agents of the National Bureau of Investigation-Davao (NBI-11) raided an alleged Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) hub in Panabo City, Davao del Norte and seized more than 50 computers and other pieces of evidence on Friday, December 13, 2024.

NBI-11 served the search warrant against alleged POGO workers for syndicated estafa and online illegal gambling in relation to Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.

Up to 59 alleged POGO workers were arrested, including 55 Chinese, three Malaysians, and a Filipino during an operation on December 6.

“We will go to the area where the computers are being setup,” NBI-11 Spokesperson, Ely Leano, said.

The computers confiscated were set up in two rooms of the two-hectare warehouse.

“After we tag all these computer gadgets, we will now be applying for Cyber Warrant allowing the NBI Digital Forensic to examine the content of these computers that, indeed, these Chinese nationals are engaged in POGO activities,” Leano added.

The alleged POGO workers have their own kitchen and dining room inside the warehouse. Those who prepared their food also have a room.

An unfinished room was also found and materials for the supposed expansion of the POGO hub were seen scattered on the floor.

Meanwhile, NBI-11 has summoned those allegedly involved in the POGO operation, including some government officials authorities did not identify, as of this writing.

“We have already sent subpoenas… here, in this place next week, they will be appearing in the NBI Regional Office,” Leano said.

—GMA Regional TV