The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI)–NCR dismantled a cybercrime hub in Clark Freeport, Pampanga, where 14 individuals were arrested for allegedly defrauding retirees and other citizens. The operation was conducted after thorough surveillance and gathering of evidence against the group.
On February 21, 2026, NBI agents served a search warrant at the said facility. During the operation, several computers, cellphones, hundreds of SIM cards, and a list of personal information of the suspected victims were confiscated. According to authorities, the evidence clearly shows organized online scamming activities.
Based on the investigation, the group allegedly uses “social engineering” and phishing links to encourage victims to invest in a fake online platform. Once they deposit, their money disappears completely and cannot be recovered. The syndicate allegedly targets retirees and individuals looking for extra income online.
The suspects are facing violations of Republic Act 10175 or Cybercrime Prevention Act, and Republic Act 12010 or Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act. The NBI continues to remind the public to be wary of suspicious investment offers and to avoid sharing personal and financial information on unverified links or digital platforms.
