20/05/2026
PRESS RELEASE | NBI-SAU DISMANTLES ONLINE LOVE SCAMMING AND CRYPTO FRAUD OPERATION IN PARAรAQUE CITY; 17 ARRESTED
The National Bureau of Investigation - Special Action Unit (NBI-SAU) successfully conducted an operation against an alleged organized online scamming syndicate engaged in "Love Scamming Activities," "Pig Butchering," and "Cryptocurrency Investment Fraud" in Paraรฑaque City.
On May 15, 2026, NBI-SAU operatives proceeded to No. 9 Patmos Street, Multinational Village, Paraรฑaque City to serve the Warrant to Search, Seize, and Examine Computer Data (WSSECD) issued by the Regional Trial Court of Paraรฑaque.
Upon serving the warrant, SAU operatives discovered that the alleged illegal activities were being conducted on the third floor of the premises, where they found a call center-like setup consisting of multiple computer workstations, mobile phones, internet routers, and other digital devices allegedly used in online scamming operations. Operatives also discovered a separate room allegedly intended for โmodels,โ where a computer installed with the โAI SWAP 2โ application, reportedly capable of AI-based face replacement or deepfake technology, was recovered.
Seventeen (17) individuals were arrested during the operation, including fourteen (14) Filipino nationals and three (3) foreign nationals, who were allegedly caught actively operating computer systems and communication devices at the time of the raid.
Initial forensic examination conducted by the NBI-Digital Forensic Laboratory revealed that the alleged operation systematically targeted foreign nationals, particularly individuals in the United States, Bangkok, and several European countries, through online dating applications and messaging platforms such as WhatsApp, Telegram, Grindr, and similar services. Investigators discovered alleged fake online identities, deceptive romantic approaches, and pre-written scripts designed to build trust, establish emotional relationships, obtain personal and financial information, and eventually persuade victims to send money.
Operatives further uncovered alleged schemes involving fabricated financial emergencies, investment opportunities, and urgent personal situations, with victims reportedly instructed to transfer funds through cryptocurrency wallets linked to a suspected bogus cryptocurrency website identified as โcexonline.uk.โ Investigators believe the use of cryptocurrency was intended to conceal the traceability of transactions and facilitate the movement of illegally obtained funds. All digital evidence and equipment covered by the warrant were seized, inventoried, and documented in accordance with established procedures.
The arrested individuals were subsequently brought to NBI-SAU office for proper booking and documentation. On May 16, 2026, Subjects were presented for inquest proceedings before the State of Prosecutors of the Department of Justice for violation of Section 4 (b)(2) of R.A. No. 10175, or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.
NBI Director Atty. Melvin A. Matibag said that the successful dismantling of the alleged online fraud operation demonstrates the Bureauโs firm commitment to protecting the public from cyber-enabled crimes and holding accountable those who exploit technology to deceive and victimize others. โAs cybercriminals continue to evolve and adopt more sophisticated methods, the NBI continues to work closely with our partner agencies to pursue individuals and groups engaged in illegal online activities and ensure that justice is served,โ he added.