Lawyer denies illegal ops, worker torture at Lucky South 99 POGO

Lucky South 99 Corp.'s lawyer, Jovito Barte, denied claims of illegal operations and worker torture at the POGO hub in Pampanga.

Barte stated that the company had a provisional license from PAGCOR which was revoked on May 22, and they were already winding down their operations before the June 4 raid.

He also said the June 4 raid by PAOCC, CIDG, and other law enforcement agencies was illegal as it occurred without proper legal orders for three days, and many foreigners were apprehended without warrants.

Barte added that over 150 cellular phones seized during the raid are integral to the company's operation targeting a potential clientele in China, and they have not yet received an inventory of items seized.

The lawyer also clarified that the two men found with bruises may be victims of gang warfare unrelated to the company, and questioned the source of alleged torture videos released by PAOCC, suggesting they might come from other raided POGOs.

Barte further denied speculation of torture at the POGO hub, stating there was no sound basis for such claims and questioned who committed these alleged acts and when they occurred.

He also denounced the warrantless arrest of foreigners during the raid, alleging discrimination against those present.