8 arrested in Subic for espionage, kidnapping possibly linked to POGOs

Six foreign nationals, identified as Chinese nationals Qiu Feng (real name Ye Tianwu), Xu Xining, Ye Xiaocan, Su Anlong, and He Peng, along with Cambodian Ang Deck/Dick, and two Filipinos Melvin Mañosa Aguillon, Jr. and Jeffrey Espiridion, were arrested in Grande Island, Subic Bay for suspected espionage and kidnapping activities possibly related to Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs).

One of the arrested foreigners, Chinese national Ye Tianwu, had an existing arrest warrant for violations of the Securities Regulation Code and the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.

The suspects were using Grande Island under the guise of private enterprises, which may be part of larger criminal network operations, according to the Department of National Defense (DND).

The DND emphasized that these activities pose a serious threat to national security, as Grande Island is a strategic vantage point overlooking key sea lanes in the West Philippine Sea.

Authorities recovered multiple cellphones, laptops, one 9mm firearm, and 16 rounds of ammunition from the arrested individuals.

The DND is considering declaring Grande Island and Chiquita Island as military reservations to enhance security in the Subic Bay area.