Manila: Police authorities raided an illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) facility in Zambales, rescuing 18 Chinese nationals and arresting two suspects in connection with alleged human trafficking activities.

According to Philippines News Agency, the operation took place on Wednesday at 3 p.m. inside the Subic Bay Freeport Zone. Police acted on a search warrant issued by Olongapo City Regional Trial Court Branch 97 on September 3, suspecting human trafficking violations.

During the raid, police arrested two individuals, known by the aliases "Bao Go" and "A Hai," and seized various pieces of evidence, including 18 desktop computers, mobile phones, documents, bank cards, IDs, a safety vault, and several large knives. The search was supervised by barangay officials and a representative from the Department of Social Welfare and Development, confirming that no minors were among the rescued individuals.

Francisco stated that the suspects were fully informed of their legal rights, in compliance with the Constitution and the Anti-Torture Law. Additionally, body-worn cameras and alternative recording devices were activated during the entire operation to ensure transparency.

The rescued individuals and seized materials are now in the custody of the CIDG Intelligence Division at Camp Crame, Quezon City, where a criminal complaint for violations of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act is being prepared for submission to the prosecutor’s office.