5 Chinese POGO-linked suspects arrested off Tawi-Tawi

On Tuesday, April 8, authorities arrested five Chinese nationals linked to Lucky South 99's offshore gaming operations after they attempted to flee via southern maritime routes.

The men were apprehended on March 21 when their boat broke down off the coast of Barangay Sikullis in Languyan, Tawi-Tawi, and were flown back to Manila from Parang, Maguindanao del Norte on Tuesday for deportation cases.

They were linked to Lucky South 99, a POGO involved in human trafficking, illegal gambling, and other criminal operations that was raided earlier by authorities in Porac, Pampanga.

BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado emphasized the importance of collaboration with government intelligence sources to prevent fugitives from exploiting border routes.

The suspects were assisted by a 'transporter' who facilitated their illegal travel but was unaware of their identities or criminal activities.

Authorities also found suspicious green substances aboard the vessel, raising suspicions about possible drug trafficking.