Operatives of the Eastern District Anti-Cybercrime Team (EDACT) arrested on Tuesday, Oct. 18, six men who were caught betting on online sabong in Barangay Pinagbuhatan, Pasig City.
The EDACT identified the suspects as Roger Altiche, Julius Francisco, and Monddie Castrono, all tricycle drivers; Rolando Belen, a jeepney driver; Noe Ronapo, a motorshop owner; and Manuel Pangos, a collector.
According to the initial investigation, the EDACT received a complaint from a concerned citizen saying there were individuals who “rampantly played” online sabong at a merchandise store in the barangay.
Members of the EDACT, headed by team leader Maj. Ely Compuesto II, conducted surveillance and validation operations, which led to the arrest of the suspects at around 3:45 p.m. inside the said store.
The suspects were “caught in the act of betting online using the cellphone of Julius Francisco,” said Compuesto in a statement.
The suspects were booked and documented at the EDACT office prior to being transferred to the Pasig City Police Station’s Detention Cell.
They are facing charges for violation of Presidential Decree 1602 on illegal gambling, in relation to Section 6 of Republic Act No. 10175 or the “Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.”