Over 1,200 arrested as crackdown vs online sabong continues
A total of 1,245 people were arrested in the intensified crackdown against the illegal operation on online sabong since July last year, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said on Tuesday, Aug. 22.
PNP chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda, Jr. said 322 of those arrested were already convicted as part of the more than 1,00o cases that the local police and various operating units have fied in various courts in the country.
Citing PNP data, Acorda said Police Regional Office 7 has the most number of arrests made with 348 followed by Police Regional Office 3 with recorded 328 arrests.
He said the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) also played an instrumental role in this operation with the apprehension of 200 suspects. Out of these cases, 27 have been referred to prosecutors for further legal proceedings, while 187 cases are poised for court action.
"The extensive crackdown on e-sabong illegal gambling underscores our unwavering commitment to the rule of law. The significant number of arrests demonstrates that the PNP remains steadfast in maintaining peace and order in our communities,” said Acorda.
“We will continue to relentlessly pursue those who violate the law, ensuring that justice prevails for the betterment of society,” he added.