Scam perpetrators nabbed after three-day spree, computer systems compromised
Investment Scam Suspects Arrested in Cebu City
Three unidentified individuals are under investigation by the Regional Anti-Cyber Crime Unit 7 (ACG 7) for their alleged involvement in an investment scam operating in Barangay Kasambagan, Cebu City. The scam, which is believed to have recruited around 30 to 40 individuals, is suspected of deploying "love scams" and fake investment solicitations targeting foreigners, primarily from African countries.
The targeted company, BMJ Data Processing Services, has been temporarily shut down by authorities following an exposé by a foreign hacker. The investigation is a collaborative effort between the ACG 7, the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) 7, the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) at the Department of Information and Communication Technology (DICT), and the Business Permit and Licensing Office (BPLO) in Cebu City.
A search warrant, issued by Judge James Stewart Ramon E. Himalaloan of the RTC Branch 7 on May 26, 2025, was executed, resulting in the seizure of 43 computers, laptops, and other related equipment. The warrant was issued based on suspicions that the scam may have violated sections of the Financial Products and Services Consumer Protection Act and the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.
Preliminary reports suggest that the computer systems of the BMJ Data Processing Services were infiltrated by a hacker, who also accessed several CCTV cameras within the company.
Police Lieutenant Colonel Maria Theresa Macatangay, deputy city director for operations at the Cebu City Police Office (CCPO), confirmed that the seized gadgets are now under the custody of the ACG 7. The warrants have been returned to the court for further proceedings.
Authorities have confirmed that the three suspects are being closely monitored to prevent them from leaving the country or the Philippines. Further details about the investigation are still pending.
[1] Source: Background information about the scope of the scam and the primary targets of the fraudsters.[3] Source: Information about the hacker who exposed the scam.
[1] The investment scam, uncovered by authorities in Cebu City, had a wide reach, recruiting around 30 to 40 individuals, with a focus on foreigners, primarily from African countries.
[2] The ongoing investigation, involving multiple agencies including the ACG 7, CIDG 7, CICC, DICT, and BPLO, has revealed that the scam may also have components related to cybersecurity, as evidenced by the infiltration of the targeted company's computer systems.
[3] Amidst the general-news story of the arrests in Cebu City, it's also important to note the role of technology in this case, including the use of computer systems and the involvement of a foreign hacker who exposed the scam.
