A fugitive suspect involved in high-profile online scams and identity theft was arrested by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) on May 19, 2026 inside a condominium unit in Novaliches, Quezon City.
The NBI Organized and Transnational Crimes Division (OTCD) reported that the operation stemmed from a request and close coordination with the Presidential Security Command which revealed the suspect’s involvement in impersonation, online financial scams, extortion, and unlawful use of identities of high-ranking government officials.
Armed with an existing court warrant for Service of Sentence for Estafa issued by a municipal court in Ilagan, Isabela, agents handled the arrest of the suspect. Also found inside the suspect’s unit were several heat-sealed plastic sachets filled with a suspicious white crystalline substance, various drug paraphernalia, and an electronic cigarette device.
The NBI Forensic Chemistry Division conducted a laboratory examination on all the confiscated items and confirmed traces of Methamphetamine Hydrochloride, locally known as shabu; and Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the active ingredient in marijuana.
The suspect is now facing charges for violation of Republic Act No. 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002) and was referred by the NBI to the Office of the City Prosecutor of Quezon City.
“The bureau will continue to pursue all individuals engaged in impersonation, cyber-enabled fraud, extortion, and other criminal activities that undermine public trust and exploit government institutions,” said NBI Director Atty. Melvin Matibag. “No individual is above the law, and we assure the public that all investigations shall be conducted professionally, fairly, and strictly within the bounds of due process.”
