Agents from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) arrested 15 individuals in Mandaluyong City on Saturday, May 9, in connection with a cryptocurrency investment scam.
The operation, carried out by the NBI Dangerous Drugs Division with support from the Digital Forensic Laboratory Division and the Philippine Air Force Intelligence Unit, implemented a Warrant to Search, Seize, and Examine Computer Data (WSSECD).
Authorities said the suspects, allegedly led by an alias “Boss Choi,” were using a spoofed website to solicit cryptocurrency investments. Those arrested included one Chinese national, one Malaysian national, twelve Filipino men, and one Filipino woman.
Multiple computer devices were seized and subjected to on-site forensic examination, which revealed data linked to computer-related forgery under the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.
From the evidence gathered, investigators concluded that a scamming network was operating inside the condominium unit.
The suspects now face inquest proceedings for violations of Section 6 of Republic Act 10175, including social engineering schemes, misuse of devices, and aiding or abetting in the commission of cybercrime.
