Large communication devices suspected to be used for hacking have been confiscated from a Chinese national in Makati City. Authorities are concerned situations like this one could potentially pose a threat to national security.
Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Spokesperson Lt. Col. Imelda Reyes said police were shocked to discover high-tech equipment in the suspect Yuhang Liu's possession.
Liu came on the authorities' radar when a complainant reported Liu had coerced him at gunpoint to carry the said equipment to Liu's residence.
Liu failed to show proper documents for the gun he carried when confronted by CIDG personnel. Upon searching his vehicle, personnel recovered firearms and ammunition, along with suspected hacking equipment like a multi-band directional antenna system, battery units, a solar inverter, a radio receiver/transmitter, a Huawei router, an Apple tablet, and mobile phones.
Personnel also raided his residence, where they found an inverter unit, CPU units, portable power supply hubs, IDs, and others.
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Spokesperson Col. Francel Padilla tagged the incident as "concerning." Forces from all involved government agencies are working to determine the bigger picture, and whether this could have anything to do with national security.
Padilla also praised CIDG's effectiveness in handling the incident with Liu, who is presently being investigated.
In an interview with the media, Liu claims he has been working with a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) for 5 to 6 years.
