AFP launches probe of Chinese ‘hacker’

MANILA, Philippines — The military has initiated its own probe into the arrest of a Chinese man who yielded sophisticated hacking equipment in Makati City earlier this week.

“We are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the arrest of Yuhang Liu, who was detained by law enforcement for possessing unauthorized firearms and equipment potentially linked to communications hacking,” Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla announced yesterday.

“We understand the sensitive nature of this case, given the alleged involvement of a foreign national,” she told reporters, adding that the military is “collaborating closely with the Philippine National Police (PNP) and other relevant agencies to thoroughly examine the seized items and determine the intent and extent of the activities involved.”

Padilla, however, noted that for the time being, the AFP urges caution in drawing any conclusions regarding Liu’s affiliations or the implications of his actions until the investigation is complete.

“We are committed to maintaining transparency with the public and our international partners as we proceed. Our priority remains the security of our nation and the enforcement of our laws, irrespective of nationality,” she said.

Padilla said the AFP commends the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) and local law enforcers for their swift action in apprehending Liu, adding that “the discovery of firearms and sophisticated electronic equipment is concerning and underscores the importance of vigilance.”

“We are closely coordinating with relevant authorities to determine the full scope of this incident. Ensuring national security remains our top priority, and we are committed to supporting ongoing investigations,” she said.

The CIDG arrested Liu in Barangay San Isidro on Wednesday after receiving a report that the Chinese was threatening and forcing a Filipino to deliver communication hacking devices to his home in Parañaque.

Liu also allegedly ordered the victim to move to different vital installations and hack or access the international mobile equipment identities or IMEIs and other electronic devices.

The suspect, who was found in possession of a 9mm handgun, had several gadgets and electronic equipment that include an antenna system, battery units, a solar inverter, a radio receiver and transmitter, a router, a computer tablet, a computer laptop and cell phones in his vehicle.

His condominium unit on Pacific Avenue in Parañaque yielded an aerial drone, an inverter unit, a computer central processing unit, a portable power station and other gadgets.

Charges filed

CIDG agents brought Liu to the Makati prosecutor’s office, where he underwent inquest proceedings, yesterday afternoon under tight security.

Col. Jean Fajardo, PNP chief information officer, said charges of violating Republic Act 10591 or the Comprehensive Law on Firearms and Ammunition, RA 8484 or the Access Devices Regulation Law and grave threat were filed against Liu.

Fajardo said an extensive background investigation on Liu is underway as they want to find out if he has accomplices. She expressed alarm over the suspect’s possible intentions as the equipment found in his possession are usually used for hacking and surveillance.

Fajardo said investigators have applied for a warrant to examine computer data so that they can look into the laptop computer, cell phones and other gadgets seized from Liu for possible incriminating evidence that would indicate scamming, spying or surveillance activities.