On June 4, 2025, at about 4:30 PM in Makati City, operatives of the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) – Cyber Financial Crime Unit (CFCU) conducted an entrapment operation that led to the arrest of a 26-year-old woman, alias “Ella,” and her 22-year-old brother, alias “Chris,” for an online investment scam.

The operation stemmed from a complaint filed by a 26-year-old businesswoman, alias “Fiona,” stating that she had been defrauded by the suspects through a social media page promoting high-yield investment opportunities.

Further investigation revealed that the siblings had been running the fraudulent scheme since 2023, deceiving hundreds of investors across the country by requiring a minimum investment of Php10,000.00 and promising a 50% return within a month.

A verification with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) confirmed that the investment entity was unregistered and had no license to solicit investments from the public.

The suspects are facing charges for violations of Article 315 (Swindling/ Estafa) of the Revised Penal Code and RA No. 8799 (Securities Regulation Code of the Philippines), both in relation to Section 6 of RA No. 10175 (Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012).

The operation aligns with the directive of Police General Nicolas D. Torre III, Chief of the PNP, to intensify cyber patrols and pursue immediate legal actions against online offenders to ensure that cybercriminals are held accountable. Police Brigadier General Bernard R. Yang, Acting Director of the PNP ACG, commended the operatives for the successful operation. He also encouraged the public, stating, “We strongly urge everyone to always verify the legitimacy of any investment opportunity before making any financial transactions. Scammers often prey on trust and urgency. When in doubt, consult authorized agencies.”