A Chinese national was rescued from a POGO hub in Pampanga following a dramatic police operation after being found detained and tortured.
In a recent high-stakes rescue operation, a Chinese national, suspected to be a victim of torture, was freed from a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) hub in Porac, Pampanga.
The rescue took place after the victim, locked inside a building within the POGO hub, was heard shouting for help.
Members of the Philippine National Police-Special Action Force (PNP-SAF) stationed outside the premises heard the cries and initiated the rescue.
The incident prompted an immediate response from the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), in coordination with PNP-SAF.
Using bolt cutters, the SAF team broke into the building and found the Chinese national on the fourth floor, in room number 4.
The building lacked electricity and was extremely hot, adding to the ordeal faced by the detainee.
Upon discovery, the victim, who showed signs of physical abuse with several bruises, revealed through an interpreter that he had been confined for several days without food.
Gilbert Cruz, the PAOCC Undersecretary, assured the victim of his safety, which elicited an emotional response from the detainee.
Following the rescue, the victim was immediately taken to a hospital for medical attention.
The operation highlights the ongoing issues with illegal POGO hubs in the Philippines, which have been linked to various criminal activities, including human trafficking and torture.
These hubs often operate under the radar, posing significant challenges to law enforcement agencies.
The government has been actively cracking down on illegal POGO activities, recognizing the broader implications on national security and public safety.