Authorities in Philippines have shut down a small illegal online gambling operation in Cebu City following a police raid that resulted in the arrest of four South Korean nationals.
The operation was carried out by the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group after officers obtained a court-issued search warrant. The raid took place on the evening of March 2, allowing investigators to search a condominium unit suspected of hosting an illegal online gaming operation, seize gambling equipment, and examine digital data stored on computers found at the site.
Police identified the suspects only by their surnames: Song (38), Kung (35), Yun (29), and Lun (38). Authorities allege that the group was running an online illegal gambling operation from several condominium units in the area.
All four individuals are facing criminal complaints related to the alleged operation.
According to Wilson Asueta, the raid followed reports from concerned citizens about foreigners allegedly conducting online gambling activities in the neighborhood.
In addition to the gambling investigation, authorities are reviewing the suspects’ immigration status in coordination with the Bureau of Immigration.
The suspects are currently facing charges under Republic Act No. 9287, which imposes strict penalties on operators of illegal numbers games. The case is also linked to Republic Act No. 10175 due to the alleged use of online platforms and social media to run and promote the gambling operation.
Authorities confirmed that the four suspects have been released on bail after each posted ₱120,000, while the case proceeds in court.
