PNP intensifies search for Casandra Ong, trafficking suspects

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has ramped up operations to locate and arrest Cassandra Li Ong and more than 50 other individuals accused of qualified human trafficking in connection with the alleged scam hub operated by Lucky South 99.

PNP Acting Chief P/Lt. General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said he has directed the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) to “intensify” efforts to track down all suspects, stressing that the police are not solely focused on Ong.

“We do not only focus on Ms. Ong. We will also make sure that all the respondents, whether they are in the Philippines or abroad, will be located and be taken to the court that issued the arrest warrant,” Nartatez said.

Ong, the alleged representative of the now-shuttered Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) hub Lucky South 99, faces charges alongside over 50 others, including lawyer Harry Roque, following investigations into purported human trafficking activities tied to the facility.

In May, the Angeles City Regional Trial Court Branch 118 issued warrants of arrest for Ong and her co-accused for qualified human trafficking, in connection with the alleged scam hub operated by Lucky South 99. 

Ong recently suffered a legal setback after the Court of Appeals dismissed her petition contesting the Department of Justice’s resolution indicting her.

Malacañang earlier said that government records still indicate Ong remains in the Philippines, contradicting reports that she was last seen in Japan.

Nartatez underscored the PNP’s responsibility to enforce judicial directives.

“The Philippine National Police is an integral part of our justice system. Our mandate is to serve the order of the court and, in this case, locate and bring all the accused for them to face the charges against them,” he said. 

“We are committed to complying with the court order,” he added.