By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA, Philippines — The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) arrested 232 Vietnamese nationals during a raid on an alleged online scam hub at Subic Gateway Park in Olongapo on October 22.
The operation at UPower Building 2 was conducted by NBI district offices in Olongapo and Pampanga, with support from the Philippine Air Force, Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority, Philippine National Police and other government agencies.
Authorities seized computers, mobile phones and documents believed connected to suspected cyber-enabled financial fraud.
Investigators said the operation allegedly targeted victims in the Philippines, United Arab Emirates, Vietnam, United States, Thailand and other countries.
The NBI is determining whether the Vietnamese nationals were trafficking victims or participants in the alleged scheme. Evidence reportedly showed that the facility processed deposits and withdrawals through bank accounts and electronic wallets.
The bureau is preparing complaints against suspected organizers and financiers for possible violations of laws against financial scams, cybercrime, money laundering and human trafficking.
NBI Director Melvin Matibag said investigators were tracing transactions and coordinating with the Anti-Money Laundering Council and financial institutions to identify and freeze accounts linked to the operation.
Authorities are also examining possible connections between the facility and overseas networks.
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