8 arrested for ‘espionage, kidnapping’

SUBIC BAY, Philippines — Six foreigners and two Filipinos suspected of involvement in espionage and kidnapping activities were arrested at the Grande Island in Subic Bay on Wednesday.

Among those arrested for violation of the Securities Regulation Code and Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 were five Chinese and a Cambodian.

The Filipinos were reportedly employees of the foreigners.

The arresting team, led by agents of the National Bureau of Investigation, recovered phones, laptops, a pistol and ammunition.

The Department of National Defense (DND) confirmed the report, saying the arrest exposed suspected espionage and kidnapping activities related to Philippine offshore gaming operations or POGO.

The DND said some foreigners are using Grande Island to hide their illegal activities, which may be part of larger criminal network operations.

Meanwhile, in Cotabato City, a woman has been arrested for allegedly practicing dentistry without a license, according to the Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG).

The 26-year-old suspect was arrested after authorities found out that she was offering dental services on social media.

The ACG coordinated with the Philippine Dental Association, which confirmed that the suspect was not a licensed dentist and was not authorized to perform any dental procedure.