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Kota Kinabalu: A Malaysian national was among 162 foreigners rescued during a raid on an illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (Pogo) hub in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, recently.

However, the Malaysian, who remains unnamed, was subsequently arrested for alleged involvement in the scam operations.

The raid, conducted by multiple law enforcement agencies, was initiated following a tip from two Indonesians who had escaped from the Tourist Garden Hotel, alleging the illegal detention of their compatriots.

The hotel, owned by a Chinese national, was found to be operating a scam farm, primarily targeting unsuspecting individuals through internet-based love scams.

The rescued individuals included 83 Chinese, 70 Indonesians, six Burmese, one Malaysian, and two Taiwanese.

The hotel, previously a public resort, was converted into a semi-private establishment, restricting access to foreigners only.

Authorities confirmed that the hotel was being used as an illegal Pogo hub, with computers and other equipment seized providing evidence of cybercrime-related offences, including facilitating illegal gambling and qualified trafficking.

While all rescued foreigners will face charges for immigration violations due to their inability to present valid passports, the Malaysian was specifically arrested due to evidence suggesting his direct involvement in the scam operations.

Authorities are currently investigating the extent of his role and whether he was acting independently or as part of a larger organised group.

The arrest of the Malaysian serves as a stark reminder of the global reach of these criminal enterprises and the importance of international cooperation in dismantling them.

This incident also highlights the need for continued vigilance and enforcement efforts to combat these illicit activities, especially in light of the first discovery of an illegal Pogo hub in Visayas following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr’s nationwide ban.