The NBI conducted a raid on a high-rise apartment in Manila on June 19 and uncovered a telecommunication scam base targeting foreigners. Four Chinese suspects were arrested but the most cunning of the group escaped by climbing out of a 35th floor window using only his hands.
The investigation revealed that the group was involved in crypto scams and pig-butchering scams used to defraud money online. When authorities entered, it is said that some security guards of the building even tried to help the suspects by giving tips and slowing down the operation. They have been charged with obstruction of justice.
Most shockingly, six of the suspects escaped through the steel part of the building. According to the police, the escape appeared to be planned and rehearsed. Also seized from the unit were numerous portable fraud tools, indicating that this type of operation is becoming more mobile and flexible.
One of those caught denied involvement in the scam and said he knew nothing. The security guard, on the other hand, insisted that he was just following the process. The suspects have been charged under the Financial Fraud Law and the guard will also face charges.
This incident shocked Manila residents, especially since it happened in a high-class residence. Police promised to pursue the escapees and not stop until the mastermind of the syndicate is caught.
