The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) arrested two Chinese nationals, Ni Qinhui and Zheng Wei on February 20 for allegedly illegal information collection. They also arrested three Filipinos, Omar Khan Kashim Joveres, Leo Laraya Panti, and Mark Angelo Boholst Binza in separate locations in Bulacan and Metro Manila.
According to the NBI, the suspects were involved in illegal surveillance using a prohibited device called IMSI catcher. This device is capable of tracking location, intercepting communication, and sending fake messages to mobile users in the vicinity.
The operation was led by the Philippine Armed Forces (AFP)after suspicious activities of the suspects were detected around sensitive areas such as military camps, government offices, and the American embassy.
According to Jaime B. Santiago, NBI official, the use of IMSI catcher is strictly prohibited in the Philippines because it violates the privacy of citizens and threatens the security of the country.
The three Filipinos admitted that they were hired by Ni Qinhui to drive near sensitive areas in exchange for a fee of 2,500 to 3,000 pesos per day.
The five suspects are currently in the custody of the Department of Justice (DOJ) and are facing charges for violating the Cybercrime Prevention Act (RA 10175)and Illegal Collection of Intelligence Act (Federal Law 616).
Investigation into the said incident is still ongoing to determine the suspects' possible connections to other groups or organizations.
