Online exploitation ring busted in QC; 2 minors nabbed, 12 victims rescued
By Trixee Rosel
Two female minors were arrested in Novaliches, Quezon City, for alleged trafficking of 11 minors and one 19-year-old in an entrapment operation. (Photo courtesy of the National Bureau of Investigation)
Authorities busted an online exploitation ring during an entrapment operation at a Novaliches resort in Quezon City, arresting two 14-year-old girls and rescuing 11 minors and a 19-year-old.
The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI)-Special Action Unit (SAU) said the operation stemmed from a complaint filed by Destiny Rescue Pilipinas Inc. regarding suspected trafficking activities involving minors.
Investigators said the two suspects allegedly used social media and other online platforms to recruit fellow students by posting their photos and offering them to potential clients for illegal transactions.
Authorities said clients allegedly paid at least P3,500 in exchange for such arrangements, with transactions agreed upon online before in-person meet-ups at the resort where the entrapment operation was carried out.
Operatives said they posed as buyers during the sting operation, which led to the rescue of 12 individuals, including minors as young as 13 years old and two male victims.
The NBI was alarmed after learning that the alleged facilitators were themselves minors, noting that they and the victims may have come from the same circle of friends or acquaintances.
Investigators are also looking into possible contributing factors such as financial difficulties, family issues, and peer influence that may have led to their involvement in the illegal activity.
Although apprehended, the bureau clarified that the suspects cannot be charged criminally under Republic Act No. 9344 or the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act, as they are below 15 years old.
Instead, the two suspects were turned over to the Quezon City Social Welfare and Development Department for intervention and counseling as children in conflict with the law.
Meanwhile, the rescued individuals underwent psychosocial intervention from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) before being endorsed to their families.
The NBI continues to investigate whether a larger syndicate or other individuals were behind the operation, while urging parents and local government units to strengthen monitoring and protection of minors against online exploitation and abuse.