Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 28) — Law enforcers raided a compound in Pasay City following reports of illegal online casino gaming operations and sex trafficking.
The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) said authorities from different agencies implemented the search warrant Friday night against two unlicensed Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators or POGOs operating under a new business name.
It said hundreds of foreign and Filipino nationals were discovered working on the site.
Two Chinese workers said “they were being kept against their will,” with one of them claiming they were forced to work for 12 to 15 hours a day.
“Torture marks were also seen on their bodies,” the PAOCC added.
Seven trafficked Filipino women were also found in an “aquarium-style” chamber that served as viewing for clients.
A massage parlor promoting sex and several sexual paraphernalia were also discovered.
Authorities also found a KTV area, a pharmacy, and restaurant within the compound.
Law enforcers said they were able to identify nine people allegedly behind the illegal operations.
“Given the abundance of evidence pointing to sex trafficking on said site, an onsite inquest hearing for the filing of criminal charges under Section 4 (E) of R.A. 9208, as amended by R.A. 10354, is suggested,” the PAOCC said.
The agency said it will also seek the cancellation of the involved company’s temporary license as an internet gaming license operator.
In a briefing, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said the compound houses “large-scale operations, very well capitalized that make money out of trafficking persons.”
Remulla also urged local government units to be wary of activities that are involved with POGOs.
