PNP warns POGOs vs. hiding crimes involving workers

KIDNAP BUSTED. PNP-AKG operatives arrest two of three suspects in the kidnapping of a Vietnamese-Chinese POGO worker in Angeles City, Pampanga on Nov. 21, 2020. PNP chief, Gen. Debold Sinas asked POGOs to report crimes involving their workers and closely coordinate with police officers regarding security concerns. (Photo courtesy of PNP AKG via PNA)

MANILA – The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Monday warned Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) against withholding information on criminal matters involving their workers.

PNP chief. Gen. Debold Sinas. issued the warning as he mentioned another case of POGO-related kidnapping that was busted by the PNP Anti-Kidnapping Group with the safe rescue of a kidnapped Vietnamese-Chinese POGO worker and the arrest of three suspects in Angeles City, Pampanga over the weekend.

“I am strongly urging POGO operators to closely coordinate with the PNP on security concerns and to refrain from handling these matters on their own,” Sinas said.

In his report to Sinas, AKG director, Brig. Gen. Jonel Estomo said the victim identified as Vong Cam Lan was rescued at 5:30 p.m. Saturday at Unit P Block-9 Lot 10A, Hanin Town Subdivision in Barangay Pampang where she was being held captive.

Operatives of AKG Luzon Field Unit arrested three Chinese nationals identified as Rouhan Li, Qiang Zhang, and Jing Li who were with the victim in the residential unit.

Through the aid of an interpreter, the suspects were apprised of their rights under Philippine laws.

However, upon investigation, the suspects refused to cooperate and repeatedly declined to give their names. The suspects then told investigators that their passports were taken from them by their company.

The victim was kidnapped last Nov.

18 at a condominium in Makati City by a group of Chinese men. She was subsequently brought to Barangay Pampang, Angeles City and the suspects demanded a ransom worth PHP161,800 from her husband for her immediate release.

The victim positively identified the arrested suspects as her abductors.

The suspects were brought to the AKG headquarters in Camp Crame for further investigation.