THE Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) 7 has filed charges before the prosecutor’s office against three individuals linked to BMJ Data Processing Services, an alleged online scam hub located at The Gallery in Barangay Kasambagan, Cebu City.
The action follows a May 27, 2025 operation where ACG 7 served a warrant to seize and examine computer data from the company’s computers and laptops. The warrant was issued by Judge James Stewart Ramon Himalaloan of RTC Branch 7 in Cebu City.
The supects are facing charges for violation of Section 11 of Republic Act (RA) 11765, or the Financial Products and Services Consumer Protection Act, in relation to Section 6 of RA 10175, or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.
The alleged fraudulent operations, which reportedly defrauded international customers, initially came to light through a foreign YouTuber who claimed to have hacked into the company’s system, including their security cameras.
Following the public revelation and the identification of the office location, the Philippine National Police (PNP) immediately launched an operation.
During the raid, authorities confiscated 43 computer sets, laptops, and other equipment. These devices are currently undergoing forensic examination to extract data that will serve as evidence in the ongoing legal proceedings.
In a related development, the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has committed to bolster efforts against cybercrime in Central Visayas. FBI Legal Attaché Courtney Corbet paid a courtesy call to Brig. Gen. Redrico Maranan, the chief of police for Central Visayas, on Thursday, May 29.
Discussions between Corbet and Maranan focused on enhancing cooperation and collaboration to combat cybercrime and dismantle scam hubs in the region.
Corbet pledged the FBI’s support to the Police Regional Office 7 in gathering digital evidence, sharing intelligence, and assisting in the prosecution of individuals involved in cybercrime and large-scale online scams that target both foreign and local victims.
Maranan, an alumnus of an FBI training program, welcomed the commitment, recognizing its critical role in addressing technologically-driven crimes.
“Cybercrime knows no borders. These criminals operate across continents, exploiting technology and jurisdictional gaps,” said Maranan.
“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,” Maranan added.
The PRO-7 director further noted that many developing cyber scams in Region 7 operate under the guise of legitimate Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) firms, siphoning off millions of pesos through deceptive practices.
“Our mission is clear: We will not allow Central Visayas to become a breeding ground for cybercriminals,” Maranan vowed.
The FBI has also commenced its own examination of the seized computer sets, currently in ACG custody, to gather data for their independent case filings related to the investment scam. / AYB