In a major operation on the 11th of October 2024, Philippine authorities captured Lin Xunhan, a 33-year-old Chinese national believed to be at the helm of an illegal network involved in Philippine offshore gaming operations (POGOs). The raid took place in Biñan, Laguna province, on the island of Luzon, according to statements from the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) on Friday.
This arrest is part of a wider government effort targeting illegal POGOs, which have been linked to numerous criminal activities, including human trafficking, online scams, and prostitution. The crackdown underscores a commitment to dismantling these illicit operations, which reportedly exploit thousands of individuals and operate under a network of front businesses.
A Key Player in the Online Scam Network
The suspect, dubbed the “kingpin” of a large-scale online fraud operation, had been running scams targeting both local and international victims. Authorities have been tracking the syndicate for months, culminating in a successful raid and arrest. As online scams continue to rise, experts warn users to be vigilant when engaging in internet activities, especially those related to gaming and finance. For legitimate gaming enthusiasts, resources like FreeSpinsTracker offer safer options and offer many no deposit free spins, so players can extend their gameplay securely, without falling prey to scams.
Lin is allegedly responsible for orchestrating extensive scamming operations in regions including Ilocos, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Cebu, and Metro Manila. The PAOCC’s report to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. emphasised Lin’s prominent role in organised crime within the Philippines. Since 2016, Lin has allegedly overseen a vast network of “scam farms,” often fronted by seemingly legitimate businesses. Although some of these entities have been shut down in past raids, authorities report that many continue to function, presenting ongoing challenges for law enforcement as they attempt to dismantle the broader network.
Raids Uncover Ties to Wider Criminal Network
Lin’s name has surfaced in connection with other high-profile investigations, such as the raid on Lucky South 99, a POGO hub in Porac, Pampanga province. This facility, raided in June, was allegedly involved in torture, human trafficking, and financial scams. Lin was apprehended alongside 12 other Chinese nationals and nine Filipino security personnel.
Authorities also suspect Lin’s involvement in illegal activities based in Bamban, Tarlac province. These operations are linked to former mayor Alice Guo, who is currently under Senate investigation for alleged ties to money laundering and Chinese-operated scam centres. Investigations into Guo’s activities revealed that she may have facilitated human trafficking by providing cover for illegal POGO operations.
Philippines’ Renewed Stance on POGOs
While POGOs have been a fixture in the Philippines for two decades, their expansion into scam operations and other illicit activities has prompted a change in regulatory attitude. In his State of the Nation Address in July, President Marcos announced a full ban on POGOs, citing the sector’s deep involvement in crimes ranging from financial scams and human trafficking to murder. The government’s intensified actions signal a continued focus on breaking up these operations and prosecuting their leaders.
As the investigation continues, Philippine authorities expect further revelations and connections to emerge locally and internationally. The arrest of Lin Xunhan, however, marks a significant step forward in unravelling an expansive criminal network operating across Southeast Asia. Whether these efforts ultimately succeed in dismantling the syndicate remains to be seen.