National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) operatives arrested 15 individuals during an operation against an alleged cryptocurrency investment scam group operating inside a condominium unit in Mandaluyong City.
In a report, the NBI said authorities received information about a certain “Boss Choi” and several other individuals allegedly conducting online scamming activities through spoofed cryptocurrency investment websites.
Following verification and surveillance operations, NBI agents, assisted by the Philippine Air Force Intelligence Unit, implemented a Warrant to Search, Seize, and Examine Computer Data (WSSECD) at the identified location.
Authorities arrested one Chinese national, one Malaysian national, and 13 Filipinos who were allegedly caught operating desktop computers believed to have been used in the scam operation.
The NBI said agents also confiscated several computer devices, which were subjected to on-site digital forensic examination.
According to investigators, the examination uncovered digital evidence allegedly linked to computer-related forgery and other cybercrime activities connected to the operation.
The suspects are expected to face multiple charges for alleged violations of Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 or Republic Act No. 10175.
The NBI said the investigation remains ongoing to determine the full extent of the alleged scam network and identify possible additional victims and accomplices.