Cebu scam hub operator charged

The Police Regional Office in Central Visayas (PRO-7) and the Anti-Cybercrime Group filed a case On Monday against a scam hub operator in Barangay Kasambagan, Cebu City.

The charges were for violation of Republic Act 10175 or the Cybercrime Prevention Act against “Tonying,” a resident of Barangay Lahug, Cebu City, identified as the alleged scam hub operator.

Violations of Sections 8 and 28 of Republic Act 8799 or the Securities Regulation Code, and Section 11 or Investment Fraud of Republic Act 11765 (Financial Products and Services Consumer Protection Act), were cited, with these offenses linked to Section 6 of RA 10175 or the Cybercrime Prevention Act.

Three other individuals, using aliases Lerang, Yanyan and Jeje — residents of Balamban, Compostela and Cebu City, respectively — have also been charged with violation of Section 11 of RA 11765, in connection with the Cybercrime Prevention Act.

Based on closed-circuit television footage obtained by police from the establishment where they operated the scam, these individuals were actively participating in the company’s scam hub.

If proven guilty, these individuals may face up to 21 years of imprisonment and fines of up to P5 million, depending on the charges and court ruling.