Agents of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Special Action Unit raid two Quezon City sites, arresting over 200 employees of an online lending collection firm accused of impersonation and intimidation. The suspects’ faces are blurred in line with documentation and privacy protocols. (Photo courtesy of NBI Special Action Unit)
More than 200 employees of an online lending collection firm were arrested in Quezon City after allegedly impersonating police officers to intimidate borrowers into paying their loans.
Agents of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) raided two sites in the city and uncovered an alleged scheme where workers used fake law enforcement identities and legal-style documents to pressure borrowers into compliance.
Investigators said the suspects introduced themselves as police officers and used fabricated warrants and other documents to scare borrowers into paying.
The operation was undertaken on June 1 pursuant to cyber warrants issued by the Regional Trial Court.
NBI Director Melvin Matibag said the group also used threatening messages and impersonation tactics during their collection activities.
Authorities seized text-blasting devices, SIM cards, mobile phones, and software allegedly used for mass messaging and identity masking.
Authorities also seized fake notices, scripted threats, and pre-written messages designed to look as if they were officially issued by the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the NBI.
Photos of police officers and other digital materials were likewise found, allegedly used to reinforce the scheme.
A supervisor of the firm denied that threats were part of their operations and said he was unaware of any such practices by employees.
The arrested workers now face charges for impersonation of law enforcers, illegal use of electronic devices, and falsification of documents.