NBI Arrest 2 Minors Over Exploitation of Fellow Students
Two minors were arrested over alleged involvement in exploitation of their fellow students at a resort in Novaliches, Quezon City.
The National Bureau of Investigation Special Action Unit launched an entrapment operation, which led to the arrest of two minors.
Authorities were surprised after discovering that the two individuals allegedly involved in the illegal operation were only 14 years old. According to investigators, the minors were allegedly using online platforms to arrange sexual services involving 11 fellow students and one adult.
Reports said clients were allegedly paying at least P3,500 in exchange for sexual services. Authorities also revealed that customers supposedly selected the victims through photos sent online before arranging personal meetups.
The operation was uncovered after NBI agents pretended to be customers as part of the entrapment setup. The planned meeting took place at a resort in Quezon City, where authorities were able to intercept those involved.
Despite being taken into custody, the NBI explained that the two minors cannot face criminal charges because of Republic Act No. 9344 or the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act. Under the law, children aged 15 years old and below are exempt from criminal liability.
Instead of detention, the minors were turned over to the Quezon City Social Welfare office together with other children involved in the incident. The rescued minors are currently undergoing psychosocial counseling and evaluation under the supervision of the Department of Social Welfare and Development before being reunited with their families.
“Number one sa parents… bantayan yung mga anak nila… pati LGUs dapat may participation,” an NBI agent said.
Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine whether a larger group or syndicate may be connected to the operation. Investigators are also looking into how the minors became involved in such activities at a young age.