By CESAR JOLITO III
Authorities arrested 30 individuals and dismantled a suspected illegal online cockfighting or “e-sabong” operation during a joint law enforcement raid at Barangay Concepcion in Negros Occidental’s Talisay City.
The operation, led by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), was conducted under its flagship campaign, Oplan Bolilyo, in coordination with regional and local police units in the early hours on April 23.
Police said the suspects were apprehended inside a private property in Sitio Catamnan 2, which allegedly served as a covert e-sabong hub where cockfighting matches were livestreamed for remote betting.
Two individuals were rescued during the operation, while a minor found at the site has been placed under proper care and protection.
Seized from the scene were various equipment used in the alleged illegal activity, including computer sets, laptops, routers, 26 mobile phones, video cameras with tripods, and three satellite receivers.
Authorities also confiscated 290 cockfighting gaffs, several fighting cocks, and other paraphernalia linked to online betting operations.
The arrested individuals are facing charges in violation of Presidential Decree 1602, or the Illegal Gambling Law, in relation to Republic Act 10175, or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.
Police said inquest proceedings are underway.
Separate complaints for alleged trafficking in persons are also being prepared against several identified individuals, including a dismissed police officer and others believed to have facilitated the operation.
According to Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., the crackdown underscores the Philippine National Police’s (PNP) intensified campaign against illegal gambling and organized criminal activities.
“Hindi natin hinahayaan na magpatuloy ang ganitong mga gawain. Every operation we conduct ensures that the law is enforced and accountability follows,” he said.
Nartatez added that the PNP will continue pursuing illegal networks to prevent their resurgence and protect communities.
Follow-up operations are ongoing to identify other individuals possibly involved, as authorities reaffirm their commitment to curbing illegal gambling activities, particularly those utilizing digital platforms to evade detection./CJ, WDJ