Two Chinese nationals were arrested by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) for allegedly selling pre-registered subscriber identity module (SIM) cards in Pasay City. The operation was part of an ongoing crackdown on activities linked to illegal SIM card use.
The suspects, identified as Yingchun and Chunmei, were apprehended during an entrapment operation around 5:15 p.m. on Thursday in front of a coffee shop at a Pasay City mall.
The operation was initiated following intelligence reports about a criminal syndicate selling pre-registered SIM cards. These SIM cards are reportedly used in various illegal activities, including:
- Online phishing schemes,
- Romance scams,
- Identity theft,
- Telecommunications fraud, and
- Other crimes require anonymity.
Seized items
During the operation, authorities confiscated the following items from the suspects:
- 1,700 Globe SIM cards,
- 2,300 TM SIM cards,
- One genuine ₱1,000 bill, and
- 49 pieces of ₱1,000 boodle money (used as props in the sting operation).
Charges filed
The suspects are facing charges for violating Section 7 in relation to Section 11(g) of Republic Act 11934, also known as the SIM Registration Act.
The law mandates that all SIM cards be registered under a user’s name to curb fraudulent activities and enhance accountability. Selling pre-registered SIM cards undermines the law’s intent to prevent crimes such as scamming and identity theft.
Authorities have warned that pre-registered SIM cards pose significant risks to public safety and cybersecurity. They provide anonymity to cybercrime perpetrators, making it more challenging for law enforcement to trace and apprehend offenders.
The CIDG encourages the public to report any suspicious activities related to SIM card fraud and reminds everyone of the importance of complying with the SIM Registration Act.
Further investigations are underway to identify other syndicate members and prevent similar illegal operations.
