AGENTS of the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) smashed two syndicates involved in the online sexual exploitation of children following separate raids in Visayas and Mindanao, PNP-ACG director Brig. Gen. Robert Rodriguez told the Journal Group on Sunday.

In a report to PNP chief Gen. Guillermo Lorenzo Eleazar, the official said that seven children were rescued during the separate operations.

Three of the minors were rescued in a raid in Baybay San Roque in Ozamis City conducted on the strength of a search warrant issued by a court for violation of the anti-child trafficking laws.

Rodriguez said that a suspect identified as Raphael Sabela was arrested during the operation and is facing charges for violation of Republic At 9208 as amended by RA 10364 or the Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2012, RA 7610 or the Anti-Child Abuse Law, and RA 9775 or the Anti-Child Pornography Act in relation to RA 10175 or the Anti-Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.

Four other minors were rescued in another operation in Bgy. Canamucan in Compostela, Cebu also last Tuesday.

Rodriguez said that a suspect identified as Arjay Lima was arrested during the raid and is facing a string of criminal charges just like the suspect arrested in Ozamis City.

The official said that the minors rescued during the Compostela, Cebu raid were aged 11,12,13 and 15 years old.

Members of the Regional Anti-Crime Unit 7 led by Col. Mary Ivy Salazar and the Women and Children Protection Center headed by Col. Mary Grace Madayag launched the operation, in coordination with the local Department of Social Welfare and Development.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Alfred P. Dalizon