POLICE have arrested a woman for allegedly attempting to sell five women to online predators during an anti-human trafficking operation in Iligan City.
The suspect was identified as Mardy Amor Sumalinog, a resident of Purok 9, Barangay Kiwalan, Iligan City.
Sumalinog used the alias "Mawie Wilson" on Facebook where she transacted with clients.
Major Abogado Mautin Jr., Iligan City Police Station 4 commander, said an informant tipped police about the alleged prostitution happening on her Facebook account.
Based on initial reports, when a client contacts the account, Sumalinog would send pictures of several females for them to choose. When a deal is made, she would proceed to arrange a meet up.
Sumalinog will face charges for violation of Republic Act 9208 as amended by Republic Act 10364 or the Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act, while the five women rescued by authorities were turned over to the City Social Welfare and Development Office.
Recovered from the suspect's possession is cash worth P2,000.
"May this successful operation against human trafficking send a message to all outlaws that ICPO (Iloilo City Police Office) is serious in hunting them, put behind bars and pay for their crimes committed," the Iligan City police said in a statement.