Love Scam Syndicate Busted In Silang, Cavite; 15 Workers Rescued
Photo credit: PNP
In an operation conducted by the Philippine National Police (PNP), a victim of alleged serious illegal detention and grave threats was rescued from a house in Silang, Cavite.
The PNP said the operation held at Barangay Pulong Saging, Silang shed light on an elaborate love scam orchestrated by the suspect, Kenchi Suico.
The incident occurred on July 12, 2023, at approximately 8:00 p.m. when the victim sought assistance from the PNP Silang Municipal Police Station in Cavite through the SMS hotline number and Facebook Messenger.
The victim reported being unlawfully detained and facing threats to their life at the hands of the love scam's alleged manager.
Responding to the distress call, the Silang MPS, in collaboration with Barangay Officials of Pulong Saging, launched a rescue operation.
Upon arriving at the scene, the rescue team discovered the victim confined within the padlocked premises of the house, preventing their escape.
The team uncovered an extensive network of 14 individuals operating computers within the location.
The individuals involved were identified as Charles Benz Varquez Sara dat, Catherine Faiardo Jaramillo, Bernard Esguerra y Fabillan, Louiemille Mark Tayros Madrid, Danilo Cabatbat Jr., Patricia Ann Romero, Kimberly Tañada Tolero, Maica Yrra B Bazarte, Ashley Heart Luna Tasi, Javelin Embate Cruz, Wilson Rey Paguio Florendo, Karol Patrick Amidao, and Hannah Jurada Mahinay. The alleged mastermind, Kenchi Laoag Suico, was also apprehended during the operation.
All individuals, including the suspect, are currently under the custody of the Silang MPS for documentation and further investigation.
During the operation, the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group seized a substantial amount of evidence, including various electronic devices utilized in the love scam. The seized items comprised 110 units of iPhone 6, 6 units of iPhone 7, 1 unit of iPhone 8, 1 unit of iPhone 10, 1 unit of Realme 6, 1 unit of Honor, 1 unit of Huawei, 1 unit of iPhone 7 Plus, 1 unit of Asus zen5, 1 unit of Oppo A92020, 1 unit of iPhone Xs Max, 1 unit of iPhone XR, 1 unit of Samsung Note10 plus, 1 unit of Vivo, 1 unit of Globe Wi-Fi modem, and 18 sets of Hailan Desktop Computers.
All seized items have been properly marked and documented as evidence for the ongoing cyber warrant investigation.
PNP Chief, PGen Benjamin Acorda Jr., commended the Cavite Provincial Police Office (PPO).
"We commend the swift and effective response of Cavite PPO in rescuing the victim and dismantling this love scam operation. The PNP is committed to ensuring the safety and security of our citizens, and we will not tolerate any form of illegal activities, especially those that put innocent lives at risk. We urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to their local authorities. Together, we can put an end to these crimes and create a safer environment for all," Acorda said.