Authorities File Charges Against Two Chinese Nationals in Connection with Pampanga POGO Raid
The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) filed complaints before the Department of Justice (DOJ) against two Chinese citizens in relation to the recent raid on a Philippine offshore gaming operator (POGO) hub in Porac, Pampanga.
According to Darwin Cañete, a prosecutor from the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking, the two Chinese nationals are facing charges of human trafficking, as well as violations of various articles in the Revised Penal Code. Cañete mentioned that the victims were forced to work at the POGO hub through intimidation and coercion.
This marks the first legal action taken against individuals linked to the Porac POGO raid. The identities of the complainants, who are also Chinese nationals, have not been disclosed for security reasons.
One of the victims was reportedly subjected to inhumane treatment, including being tied to a bed and detained for several days. The two respondents are currently being held at the PAOCC facility in Pasay City.
During the raid on the POGO hub operated by Lucky South 99 Corp., authorities found over 150 foreign nationals working at the site. They also rescued a Chinese national who was handcuffed to a bedframe and discovered videos depicting torture within the compound. Chinese Army uniforms and war medals were also found on the premises.
Despite the evidence uncovered by authorities, Lucky South 99 Corp. has denied any involvement in illegal activities at the POGO hub.
