Photo credit: NBI

The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has dealt another blow to illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations (POGOs), this time in Davao City. Acting on the directive of NBI Director Judge Jaime B. Santiago (Ret.) to root out remaining POGOs and the criminal networks behind them, the NBI-Southeastern Mindanao Regional Office (NBI-SEMRO) dismantled an illicit gaming hub hidden inside a residential property.

The August 12 operation began with a tip from a homeowner who noticed unusual activity in a house along Gardenia Street, Montclair Highlands Subdivision, Buhangin. After conducting surveillance and confirming the presence of POGO operations, NBI agents moved in, arresting eight Chinese nationals. Computers, mobile phones, and other devices believed to have been used in the operation were seized.

According to investigators, this case reflects a new trend among illegal POGO operators—splitting into smaller groups and relocating to residential neighborhoods to avoid detection after nationwide crackdowns. Authorities say this makes community vigilance all the more critical.

The arrested individuals are now in NBI custody and face charges under Philippine law. The seized devices will undergo forensic analysis to trace digital evidence, track financial transactions, and uncover the larger network behind the operation.

Director Santiago reaffirmed the NBI’s commitment to pursuing offshore gaming schemes that threaten national security, undermine the economy, and erode public morals. The bureau is urging the public to report suspicious activities in their areas, warning that illegal POGO hubs are often linked to money laundering, cybercrime, and human trafficking.