PNP-ACG: 52 nabbed for cybercrimes in first half of May 2026

The Philippine National Police-Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) arrested 52 individuals in anti-cybercrime operations in the first half of May.

In a statement, the PNP said the suspects include 23 who were nabbed in entrapment operations, 28 wanted persons, and one who was apprehended during a rescue operation.

From May 1 to 15, the ACG also referred a total of 89 cases, consisting of 67 regular filings and 22 inquest proceedings and recorded the conviction of 10 individuals in cyber-related cases.

The ACG also beefed up its cyber-patrolling, digital forensic examinations, and the implementation of Warrants to Disclose Computer Data (WDCD) to support ongoing investigations and strengthen the gathering of evidence in cyber-related cases.

It conducted 587 cyber patrolling operations and 18 digital forensic examinations to support case build-up and prosecution efforts.

In addition, 10 victims were rescued from various forms of online exploitation and cyber-related harm.

“Our cybercops continue to adapt to the fast-changing digital world. These results show our strong commitment to protect the public – hindi po natin hahayaan na magamit ang teknolohiya sa panlilinlang at iba pang krimen (we will not let technology be used for deception and other crimes),” PNP chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said.

He added that the police force will continue to intensify cyber patrols, strengthen inter-agency coordination, and enhance its technical capabilities to combat emerging online threats.

The PNP also asked for the public’s cooperation through reporting suspicious online activities and helping prevent cybercrime incidents. — JMA, GMA News