Headline:
Two Chinese Nationals Arrested in Bulacan for Alleged Possession of Surveillance Equipment
Subheadline:
Authorities Seize IMSI Catcher, Routers, and Batteries in Anti-Cybercrime Operation
Date: May 9, 2025
Baliuag, Bulacan — Two Chinese nationals were arrested on Wednesday for allegedly possessing electronic equipment capable of intercepting mobile communications. The Philippine National Police – Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG), in coordination with the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), conducted an entrapment operation at Primavera Homes, Barangay Sabang, leading to the apprehension of the suspects identified only as “Feng” and “Shi” .
Seized Equipment:
During the operation, authorities confiscated several items from the suspects, including:
- An International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI) catcher motherboard and antenna
- A Wi-Fi internet router
- A metal b
- ox battery
- Two inverters
These devices are capable of intercepting, storing, and utilizing information obtained from various communication equipment, particularly mobile phones .
Legal Actions:
The suspects are currently detained at the CIDG Bulacan Provincial Field Unit. They are facing charges under the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 for the misuse of devices .
Statements from Authorities:
CIDG Director Maj. Gen. Nicolas Torre III emphasized the severity of the offense, stating that the use of IMSI catchers is a violation of individual human rights and a threat to national security. He further warned that the CIDG is committed to combating all forms of cybercrime and will continue to enforce the law rigorously .