NBI raids alleged online scam hub in Cavite, arrests 7 including foreign nationals
MANILA – Agents from the National Bureau of Investigation–Cavite North District Office (NBI-CAVIDO North) arrested seven individuals — four foreign nationals and three Filipinos — in a late-night raid on an alleged online scam hub in Barangay Panapaan, Bacoor City.
The operation took place around 11:30 p.m. on October 15, 2025, at a two-story residence covered by a Warrant to Search, Seize, and Examine Computer Data issued by Judge Arnel Espiritu of RTC Branch 110.
NBI identified the alleged mastermind as a Chinese national known as “Daye.” They arrested the Chinese national along with two Malaysians, an Indonesian, and three Filipino accomplices.
According to NBI-CAVIDO North Chief Atty. Cesar Eric Nuqui, investigators recovered significant digital evidence linking the group to computer-related fraud.
“May kasama tayong computer experts, at nakakuha tayo ng mahalagang ebidensiya na ang mga suspek ay sangkot sa computer-related fraud,” Nuqui said.
The group allegedly ran online romance and cryptocurrency investment scams, with some members tasked to lure victims and others pretending to be women to build trust. Once victims sent money, the scammers reportedly blocked them immediately.
Barangay officials said this was the second time a similar illegal operation had been uncovered in the area.
Authorities confiscated five computers, around 100 mobile phones, and several data storage devices believed to contain information tied to the online fraud activities.
The suspects are facing charges for violating the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 (R.A. 10175) and the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act (R.A. 12010). The NBI currently detains the suspects at the NBI Detention Facility in Muntinlupa City pending further investigation.
BY THE NUMBERS: Online Scams on the Rise
📈 78% surge in scam calls recorded in the 3rd quarter of 2025, according to NBI monitoring data.
Top scam types reported:
Online romance scams — fake personas used to gain victims’ trust and money.
Crypto investment fraud — bogus platforms promising quick profits.
Phishing and account takeovers — links or messages stealing user credentials.
Who’s being targeted:
-
Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and remote workers
-
Senior citizens active on social media
-
Online investors and traders
NBI reminder:
“Think before you click. Verify before you invest.”
The public is urged to report suspicious accounts and digital fraud attempts through the NBI Cybercrime Division or local police hotlines.
About The Author
