By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — The Philippine National Police (PNP) rounded up 303 individuals allegedly involved in various cybercrime offenses during an intensified nationwide campaign conducted over the past three months.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the arrests covered operations from April to June, with 137 suspects caught through entrapment and other targeted law enforcement activities spearheaded by the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group.
The police also rescued 38 victims linked to cybercrime cases during the same period, reflecting the agency’s expanded efforts to protect people from online exploitation and fraud.
According to Nartatez, the campaign is not solely focused on apprehending offenders but also on ensuring immediate assistance for victims and strengthening public awareness against online threats.
The Anti-Cybercrime Group conducted 6,845 cyber patrol missions to monitor suspicious online activities and prevent digital offenses. It likewise completed 220 digital forensic examinations, providing crucial technical support to investigators handling cyber-related cases.
Nartatez said the PNP continues to bolster its cybercrime capabilities by enhancing the skills of its personnel and reinforcing cooperation with government institutions and other partners to keep pace with the evolving landscape of cyber threats.
ia/xf
