IN a nationwide crackdown on digital offenses, the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP ACG) conducted two consecutive operations that resulted in 18 arrests and the filing of 66 cases over a two-week period in August 2026.
In the second week of the offensive, running from August 13 to 20, 2026, specialized units referred 17 cases for regular court filing.
According to PNP ACG accomplishment reports, the vast majority of these violations stemmed from online swindling and estafa under Article 315 of the Revised Penal Code, applied alongside Section 6 of Republic Act No. 10175 (Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012), computer-related fraud, and Republic Act No. 12010, or the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act (AFASA).
These legal actions followed an earlier nationwide blitz from August 7 to 13, 2026, which saw police arrest 18 suspects and initiate 49 cases.
Operatives apprehended seven individuals through judicial arrest warrants, while 11 were caught during targeted entrapment operations.
The successful operations were carried out through coordinated efforts by the PNP ACG’s Special Operating Units (SOUs), District Anti-Cybercrime Teams (DACTs), and Regional Anti-Cybercrime Units (RACUs).
Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., Chief of the PNP, emphasized that police strategy must adapt as criminal activity shifts online.
“Online crime can happen behind a screen, but the harm is real. We continue to improve our capability to trace, verify, and act on information,” General Nartatez said, noting that fast, careful police response ensures strong court cases and public protection.
Police Major General Wilson C. Asueta, Director of the PNP ACG, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to dismantling digital networks that victimize the public.
“Through strengthened investigations, effective case build-up, and close coordination with our partner agencies, the PNP ACG will continue to pursue those who exploit technology,” General Asueta added.
