On May 30, 2025, at about 12:30 PM, operatives of the Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit 10 (RACU10) conducted an entrapment operation in Cagayan de Oro City that led to the arrest of a 19-year-old woman, alias “Kaye,” for offering unauthorized dental services online.

The operation was initiated following a proactive cyber patrolling of RACU 10, during which they came across a Facebook post by the suspect offering do-it-yourself dental braces at Php1,600.00.

Investigations revealed that “Kaye” had been engaged in the unauthorized practice since she was 17 years old. She reportedly learned to apply dental braces by observing procedures while working as a dental assistant for a licensed dentist.

Further reports disclosed that the procedures were carried out in an improvised clinic lacking proper hygiene and sanitary standards.

“Kaye” is facing charges for violation of Section 33 of RA No. 9484 (Philippine Dental Act of 2007), in relation to Section 6 of RA No. 10175 (Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012).

The operation was in line with the directive of Police General Nicolas D. Torre III, Chief of the PNP, to continue strengthening cyber patrolling and take immediate legal action to ensure public safety in the digital environment.

Police Brigadier General Bernard R. Yang, Acting Director of the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group, commended the Unit for the successful operation. “We urge everyone to be cautious when seeking professional services on the internet. Only trust licensed practitioners. If you encounter suspicious or unauthorized dental providers, report them immediately to the nearest ACG office so we can act swiftly to prevent further harm,” he said.