AN American national suspected of child trafficking was arrested by police on Wednesday night in Barangay Taytayan, Bogo City.
Four girls, ages 15 and 16, were also rescued inside the rented house of Harold Glover, a former security officer from Georgia, USA.
The 69-year-old expatriate who has been living in Bogo City for a decade was brought this morning to the office of Cebu Vice Gov. Agnes Magpale following yesterday's operation.
Atty. Noemi Truya, spokesperson of the Children's Legal Bureau (CLB), said Glover's arrest came after Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 25 Judge Jerry Dicdican issued a search warrant against the foreigner for child trafficking.
P1,800 for sex
Glover's alleged illegal activities came to light after a 16-year-old girl told local police that she was paid P1,800 in exchange for sex.
The girl, who was recruited by Glover's alleged Filipina companion, said she did it to buy school supplies. She was told that Glover would only touch her, but their encounter allegedly led to a sexual assault.
Truya said Glover was first reported to them in December last year and has been monitored by their investigating team. His identity was not yet known at that time.
They coordinated with the police to gather information and referred the case to PWC, resulting in the application of a search warrant.
Appeal
Truya said they urged other victims to come out and press charges against Glover. She also reminded parents to keep a close watch on their children of where and who are they going out with.
Sought for comment on the allegation, Glover refused to issue a statement to reporters.
A complaint for violating Republic Act 9208 or the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act, as amended by RA 10364 or the Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act, will be filed against him.