Chinese nationals face human trafficking charges in POGO raid

Two Chinese nationals, Qin Ren Gou and Jiang Shi Guang, are facing human trafficking, robbery, serious physical injuries, kidnapping, and illegal detention charges in connection with Philippine offshore gaming operations (POGO) activities in Porac, Pampanga.

Qin and Jiang were arrested during a raid at the Lucky South 99 POGO hub and are now under custody of the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Operations Center (PAOCC).

DOJ prosecutors received complaints filed by PAOCC and unnamed civilian complainants on July 1, detailing the torture and illegal activities experienced by workers.

Prosecutor Darwin Cañete stated that foreign workers were subjected to force or intimidation at these POGO hubs, with one victim tortured, tied to a bed frame, and locked up for days before seeking help during the raid.

The PAOCC filed complaints against several individuals with the Department of Justice, which will conduct a preliminary investigation into the illegal activities at Lucky South 99.

Lucky South 99 Corp. has denied that illegal activities occurred despite evidence to the contrary, and the case has raised concerns about potential leaks within government agencies.

More than 150 foreign nationals were rescued during the raid early this month.