The Philippine National Police (PNP) said a total of 1,245 suspects of online sabong or e-sabong have been apprehended in anti-illegal gambling operations from July 1 last year to Aug. 15 this year.
Based on PNP Crime Incident Reporting and Analysis System (CIRAS) data, 437 cases have been referred to prosecutors and 808 have been directed to courts, and 322 cases have resulted in the convictions of the accused.
“The extensive crackdown on E-sabong illegal gambling underscores our unwavering commitment to the rule of law. The significant number of arrests demonstrates that the PNP remains steadfast in maintaining peace and order in our communities,” PNP Chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. said.
“We will continue to relentlessly pursue those who violate the law, ensuring that justice prevails for the betterment of society,” he added.
Records from the Police Regional Office 7 also showed that 348 suspects had already been taken into custody, including 123 that have been referred to prosecutors and 225 forwarded to the courts for prosecution.
Police Regional Office 3 recorded 328 arrests, including 170 referred to prosecutors and 158 that are undergoing trial before the courts.
The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group apprehended 200 suspects, including 27 that have been referred to prosecutors for further legal proceedings and 187 cases that are for court action. AG – gb
