THE Anti-Cybercrime Group in Central Visayas (ACG 7) has formally filed a complaint before the Cebu City Prosecutor’s Office against three individuals running BMJ Data Processing Services located in Barangay Kasambagan, Cebu City.
On May 27, 2025, the ACG served a warrant to seize and examine computer data from computers and laptops used in what has been identified as a scam hub. The warrant was issued by Judge James Stewart Ramon E. Himalaloan of Regional Trial Court Branch 7 in Cebu City.
This is in violation of Section 11 of Republic Act 11765 (Financial Products and Services Consumer Protection Act) in relation to Section 6 of RA 10175 (Cybercrime Prevention Act).
The operation was launched following the revelations of a foreign YouTuber who allegedly hacked into the company’s system and closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras, exposing its illegal activities targeting foreign customers.
Once the scam was exposed and the company’s office was identified, the Philippine National Police (PNP) immediately launched an operation.
Authorities seized 43 computer sets, laptops, and other devices for examination and data extraction that could serve as evidence in filing criminal charges.
In line with this, the Legal Attaché of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in the US paid a courtesy call to Police Brigadier General Redrico Maranan, the chief of police in Central Visayas, on Thursday, May 29, 2025.
Among the matters discussed were the enhancement of cooperation and collaboration in combating cybercrime and dismantling scam hubs in Central Visayas.
FBI Legal Attaché Courtney Corbet assured the agency’s support for Police Regional Office-Central Visayas (PRO 7) in collecting digital evidence, sharing intelligence, and helping track down perpetrators involved in cybercrime and large-scale online scams targeting both foreign and local individuals.
Maranan welcomed the commitment, saying such partnerships are crucial in solving tech-driven crimes.
“Cybercrime knows no borders. These criminals operate across continents, exploiting technology and jurisdictional gaps. This partnership with the FBI will equip us with the tools, training, and tactical support necessary to trace these networks and bring offenders to justice,” said Maranan.
He also pointed out that many cyber scam operations in Central Visayas masquerade as legitimate Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) companies, siphoning off millions through fraudulent means.
“Our mission is clear: We will not allow Central Visayas to become a breeding ground for cybercriminals,” Maranan added.
A graduate of the FBI training program, Maranan expressed strong confidence in joint efforts between local and foreign law enforcement in solving internet-based crimes.
The FBI has also begun examining the computer sets now in ACG’s custody to extract data for their own filing of charges against those behind the investment scam. (AYB)