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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider AFP initiates probe on 'concerning' arrest of Chinese man over guns, hacking equipment

AFP initiates probe on 'concerning' arrest of Chinese man over guns, hacking equipment

Published May 31, 2024 04:03 am
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Yuhang Liu (Contributed photo)

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said Friday, May 31, that it has conducted an investigation after a Chinese man arrested by the police in Makati City yielded communications equipment linked to possible hacking.

Personnel of the Philippine National Police’s (PNP) Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) arrested one Yuhang Liu in Barangay San Isidro on Wednesday, May 29. 

“The AFP commends the CIDG and local law enforcement for their swift action in apprehending Mr. Yuhang Liu in Makati City. The discovery of firearms and sophisticated electronic equipment is concerning and underscores the importance of vigilance,” AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla said.

However, the AFP appealed to the public to refrain from drawing any conclusion as regards to the suspect’s affiliations or the implications of his actions “until the investigation is complete.” 

Media reports stated that the suspect is being probed by the police for his alleged spy activities.

“We understand the sensitive nature of this case, given the alleged involvement of a foreign national,” Padilla said. “We are committed to maintaining transparency with the public and our international partners as we proceed.”

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Police seize this firearm and various communication devices linked to alleged hacking from the suspect. (Contributed photo)

According to the police, they received a report that the suspect allegedly threatened at gun point and forced a Filipino man, whose identity was withheld for security reasons, to deliver hacking devices to his area of residence in Paranaque City.

The victim was also allegedly directed by the suspect to place the hacking devices in various installations to illegally access the international mobile equipment identity (IMEI) of different mobile phones.

The police carried out an operation and law enforcers spotted the suspect carrying a handgun tucked in his waist along Finland Street corner Codornico Street, according to a report. When asked to present any identification and the documents of his gun, the suspect failed to show any.

The police said that they seized from the suspect three pistols, various ammunition, a multi-band directional antenna system, batteries, a radio receiver/transmitter, router, solar inverter, several phones, and P15,470 cash, among others.

Padilla said the AFP has coordinated with the PNP and other relevant agencies to thoroughly examine the seized items from the suspect and determine the intent and extent of his illegal activities in the Philippines.

“Our priority remains the security of our nation and the enforcement of our laws, irrespective of nationality, Padilla emphasized.

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Armed Forces of the Philippines AFP PH-China
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