A fake dentist who allegedly learned dental practice through social media and offered cheap dental services online was arrested in an entrapment operation at a motel in Cotabato City.

According to a report by 24 Oras, the suspect was arrested because he is not a licensed dentist.

The operation was launched after the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) monitored the suspect offering dental services online such as installing braces for as low as P1,000.

“Wala naman talaga itong clinic yung mga pagpapanggap ay kung asan siya ay doon na lang pupuntahan,” PNP-ACG Director, Brigadier General Bernard Yang, said.

ACG said the suspect allegedly engaged in the illegal activity to support his studies.

Since the services were cheap, most of the victims were students.

Authorities also said the suspect learned how to perform dental procedures reportedly through social media.

“Itong suspek natin ay natutunan niya yung paggawa braces ay sa isang social media platform doon siya nag aral at pinagpraktisan niya yung kanyang mga naging biktima” Yang added.

Police are also monitoring more fake dentists.

From March 12 to April 28, 2024, at least 14 individuals have already been arrested for illegal dental practice in Mindanao.

“Nakita nilang medyo lucrative yung illegal business na ito,” Yang said.