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Philippines steps up crackdown on illegal online gambling

Criminal networks are believed to be using routes from Palawan to Sabah, then through Malaysia, with final destinations in Myawaddy (Myanmar) or Phnom Penh (Cambodia).

Hanoi (VNA) – The Philippine National Police (PNP) has ordered increased patrols and surveillance in coastal and border areas following reports that criminal gangs are attempting to shift illegal Philippine offshore gaming operations to neighbouring countries.

PNP Acting Chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. instructed units to strengthen their presence and intelligence activities along potentially exploitable “backdoor routes”.

According to the police chief, criminal networks are believed to be using routes from Palawan to Sabah, then through Malaysia, with final destinations in Myawaddy (Myanmar) or Phnom Penh (Cambodia).

He said the PNP is coordinating with foreign intelligence agencies and relevant authorities to verify the information, while also warning of the involvement of criminal groups linked to human trafficking, fraud, and other forms of transnational crime.

The move follows the enactment of a Philippine law banning illegal online gambling, which has intensified efforts to dismantle related criminal networks./.

VNA
#Philippines #illegal Philippine offshore gaming operations #transnational crime #illegal online gambling #Philippine National Police Philippines
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