Anticybercrime enforcers nab 332 in operations
The Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) has arrested 332 individuals for various violations during the first quarter of 2026.
In a news release over the weekend, the ACG said the 332 offenders were arrested during the implementation of 337 cyberwarrants from Jan. 1 to March 31.
Of the total arrests, 119 were through service of warrants, 205 through entrapment operations, and eight in the course of executing warrants to search, seize and examine computer data.
The ACG also referred 593 cases, conducted 7,129 cyberpatrolling activities and completed 226 digital forensic examinations.
During the first quarter operations, the PNP-ACG likewise rescued 74 victims and convicted 143 individuals.
“The PNP ACG is steadfast in its mission to fortify cyber intelligence, sharpen investigative and forensic capabilities, intensify cyberpatrols, and expand public awareness programs to effectively address emerging cyberthreats,” PNP-ACG chief Brig. Gen. Wilson Asueta said.
The number included the 16 individuals who were earlier arrested in a series of operations nationwide targeting online fraud and cyber-enabled estafa, the PNP said on Friday.
The ACG said the suspects allegedly defrauded victims through fake online selling activities and fraudulent investment schemes.
All 16 were arrested and charged with swindling or estafa under Article 315 of the Revised Penal Code and the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012. —PNA
During the same period, the ACG referred a total of 84 estafa cases, with 82 filed through regular procedures and two submitted for inquest proceedings.
Common modus operandi include online selling scams and fraudulent investment schemes, where victims are lured through deceptive offers and false promises of financial gain.
