By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — About 200 foreign nationals were rounded up during a massive interagency operation targeting suspected scam activities in Zamboanga Sibugay, where authorities also recovered an estimated 2,000 mobile phones, computers, laptops and other electronic devices.
The simultaneous operation was conducted in the towns of Alicia and Siay by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and Bureau of Immigration (BI), with support from local law enforcement and troops of the Army’s 102nd Infantry Brigade.
The Philippine Army’s 1st Infantry Division said the operation followed intelligence gathering and reports involving suspected human trafficking, immigration violations and other possible transnational crimes.
Authorities are validating the identities, nationalities and immigration status of the foreign nationals found at the sites, as well as determining the circumstances of their presence and any possible involvement in illegal activities.
Investigators are also looking into whether some of those found may have been victims of human trafficking, exploitation, coercion, illegal recruitment or restrictions on their movement.
The electronic equipment recovered during the operation is being examined and will undergo forensic analysis to determine possible links to suspected scam activities.
Zamboanga Sibugay Gov. Dulce Ann Hofer expressed support for the operation while emphasizing that authorities must observe due process in determining the circumstances and possible liability of those involved.
“Zamboanga Sibugay is a peaceful, orderly and law-abiding province. We will not allow our communities to be used as venues for activities that violate Philippine immigration and penal laws, especially laws against human trafficking and transnational crimes,” Hofer said.
She said the provincial government would continue assisting law enforcement agencies while ensuring that legal safeguards are observed. She also urged local officials and residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities through proper channels.
Maj. Gen. Yegor Rey Barroquillo Jr., commander of the 1st Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Zampelan, said the military would continue supporting law enforcement agencies in operations against human trafficking and transnational crime.
He also called for the humane treatment of those found during the operation, particularly those who may have been victims.
“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,” Barroquillo said.
The NBI and BI are handling the law enforcement and immigration aspects of the operation, while Army personnel provided security support.
Authorities said additional details would be released after validation, including the confirmed number and nationalities of the foreign nationals, arrests made, further evidence recovered and possible charges.
The identities and specific nationalities of those found at the sites have yet to be disclosed as the investigation continues.
ia/xf
