Manila: Three officers of the Philippine National Police-Anti Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) have been relieved from their duties following a raid at an alleged scam hub within the Century Peak Tower in Manila on October 29. In a statement, ACG chief Maj. Gen. Ronnie Francis Cariaga announced the immediate dismissal of the officers and an investigation into their alleged tampering with a closed-circuit television (CCTV) camera during a post-raid examination on October 31. Reports indicate the officers moved and obscured the CCTV in a hallway to avoid being seen walking shirtless due to the extreme heat inside the building.

According to Philippines News Agency, the building’s elevator and air conditioning systems were deliberately turned off, forcing the raiding team to ascend to the 23rd floor, where the purported Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) hub is situated. Maj. Gen. Cariaga emphasized the seriousness of the incident, stating that sanctions would be imposed if the officers are found liable. The o
fficers are currently undergoing administrative proceedings under the jurisdiction of the Personnel Holding and Accounting Section (PHAS) of the ACG.

The raid at Century Peak Tower occurred two days before the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), led by Undersecretary Gilbert Cruz, alongside the PNP Special Action Force and Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, shut down Central One Bataan PH, Inc. in Bagac, Bataan, following a search warrant issued by a Malolos, Bulacan court. The PAOCC identified Central One as a scam and gaming hub operating under the guise of a business process outsourcing firm.

Simultaneously, National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) chief Maj. Gen. Sidney Hernia refuted allegations of extortion against him and 14 other officers, describing them as ‘absurd and unfounded.’ Hernia urged accusers to present their claims in the appropriate forum and welcomed any investigation to verify the regularity and legality of their actions. He expressed confidence that th
e investigation would demonstrate that all procedures followed were lawful and proper, highlighting the NCRPO’s commitment to combating criminality and protecting the public from fraudulent activities.

The PAOCC disassociated itself from the operation, labeling it as ‘flawed’ due to the reported release of foreign suspects.