6 minors in online sex rescued

The National Bureau of Investigation yesterday said they nabbed two persons while six minors were rescued from alleged online sexual exploitation activities in Manila.

Those arrested were identified as Lynette S. Cruz and Paulo R. dela Cruz who were caught last 8 September during an entrapment operation conducted by the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking and the NBI. The operatives were armed with a Warrant to Search, Seize and Examine Computer Data.

The NBI said that aside from the rescuing six minors, the operation "also resulted in the seizure of various inventory indicated in the WSSECD."

The two subsequently were charged before the Department of Justice with violations of Republic Act 11930, the Anti-Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children and Anti-Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials Act; RA 9208, the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act, as amended; and RA 7610, the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act.

The operation was conducted after the NBI Anti-Violence Against Women and Children Division received "information from Homeland Security Investigation Manila regarding an alleged facilitator in the Philippines who transmits sexually exploitative images and videos of minors to United States."

"NBI-AVAWCD reviewed the pieces of evidence which include child sexual abuse or exploitation materials, Skype and WhatsApp chat logs, Paypal Subpoena results, and screen record of video call through Skype between Subject Lynette and the poseur-customer," it said.

It added that operatives also went to HSI Manila Headquarters and it was found that Lynette was still offering live streaming and sexual shows.