The Philippine National Police (PNP) has intensified its campaign against digital fraud, arresting 15 individuals and seizing 36 financial accounts in a series of coordinated anti-cybercrime operations conducted across the country from April 1 to 15, 2026.
The suspects were allegedly involved in the illegal online sale of financial accounts—including ATM and e-wallet accounts—commonly used as conduits for fraudulent transactions. Authorities say these accounts are often exploited by organized scam networks to move illicit funds and evade detection.
The operations were carried out simultaneously by Regional Anti-Cybercrime Units, alongside Provincial and City Cyber Response Teams and District Anti-Cybercrime Teams, underscoring a unified, nationwide push to dismantle cyber-enabled financial crimes.
Charges have been filed against the arrested individuals for violating Republic Act No. 12010, or the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act (AFASA), in relation to Section 6 of Republic Act No. 10175, also known as the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.
PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. emphasized that the crackdown reflects the police force’s strengthened operational strategy under its transformation agenda, particularly in enhancing capabilities to address emerging cyber threats.
“Cybercrime continues to evolve and remains a serious threat to public trust in digital financial systems. We remain committed to pursuing individuals and groups who exploit these platforms for illegal gain,” Nartatez said.
He also reiterated the PNP’s commitment to protecting Filipinos from online scams.
“Hindi natin hahayaan na manatiling biktima ang ating mga kababayan ng mga online scam. Patuloy ang ating operasyon para tiyakin ang kanilang proteksyon,” he added.
The PNP said the latest operations align with the broader directive to step up enforcement against cyber-enabled crimes, as authorities work to safeguard the growing digital economy and ensure safer online financial transactions for the public.