ANGELES CITY, Philippines – Agents of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) arrested five Chinese nationals during a raid on a house in a gated subdivision in Angeles City, Pampanga, where they were allegedly operating an online scam targeting fellow Chinese.
The raid, conducted by the NBI’s Intelligence Service, led to the confiscation of multiple laptops and desktop computers reportedly used in the illegal scheme.
NBI Assistant Director for Intelligence Service Noel Bocaling said the group strategically rents high-end homes to avoid suspicion, often offering above-market rates to landlords while concealing their operations.
Authorities said the raid was linked to a broader manhunt for a Chinese national described as a “big boss” allegedly involved in a string of killings of fellow Chinese citizens and some Filipinos.
The five suspects are facing charges under the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act. The Chinese Embassy is coordinating with Philippine authorities regarding their potential deportation.
The investigation is ongoing as the NBI intensifies efforts to dismantle foreign-led online scamming rings operating in the country.