Two Chinese nationals arrested for installing IMSI catcher in Bulacan

Two Chinese nationals, identified as Feng and Shi, were arrested in Baliuag, Bulacan for allegedly possessing and installing an IMSI catcher, a device used for spying and intercepting communications.

The arrest was made by a joint operation involving the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) and the Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG).

According to CIDG Director Maj. Gen. Nicolas Torre III, the suspects were under surveillance for espionage and were caught in the act of installing the equipment.

Authorities believe the confiscated device could have been used to intercept, store, and exploit data from communication equipment like cellphones.

Also seized from the suspects were an internet router, inverters, and a sport utility vehicle.

The two Chinese suspects are currently detained and will face charges for violating the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.