The arrest of multiple suspects led to the rescue of several minors in Iligan City, Lanao del Norte on August 23 and 24, 2024, after the Women and Children Protection Center-Mindanao Field Unit’s (WCPC-MFU) back-to-back operations in eradicating Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC).
Results from the extensive online surveillance and cyber patrolling by the Internet Crime Against Children Investigators of WCPC-MFU revealed that two male suspects were involved in the sexual exploitation of children. The two suspects were arrested during the coordinated entrapment and rescue operation on the afternoon of August 23.
The arrest resulted in the rescue of three victims; one male minor, one male adult, and one child at risk.
Additionally, an operation was carried out by the WCPC-MFU the following day, August 24. A Warrant to Search, Seize, and Examine Computer Data (WSSECD) was implemented during the rescue operation, which led to the arrest of one suspect. Four children were rescued, with two at risk, and two online victims.
The Digital Forensic examination revealed that the suspect’s devices contained Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation Materials (CSAEM). Due to this, he was arrested under RA 11930, or the Anti-OSAEC and Anti-CSAEM Act.
“The rescued victims have been turned over to the CSWDO-Iligan City for assessment, evaluation, and further care, while the suspects remain in custody as investigations continue,” the WCPC-MFU said.
