In a shocking case of online human trafficking, a woman from Cebu was apprehended during a coordinated sting operation. The arrest took place on February 13, 2025, in Barangay Sta. Rosa, Olango Island, Lapu-Lapu City, where the suspect allegedly exploited her own children through the internet. Colonel Lemel Gonda, head of the Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit-Central Visayas, confirmed the rescue of the suspect’s 15-year-old daughter and another minor during the operation. The Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit-7 conducted a thorough cyber forensic examination on the suspect’s devices to strengthen the case against her. Both rescued minors are currently receiving psychosocial support from social workers. The investigation began in July 2023 after an undercover officer discovered the suspect’s illicit activities on online platforms, leading to the swift rescue of her daughter and the suspect’s arrest. Additional evidence was found on a cellular phone taken from the suspect. She now faces charges under Republic Act No. 11862, the Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2022. Police Regional Office-7 director Brig. Gen. Redrico Maranan emphasized the critical role of online surveillance and undercover operations in combating human trafficking and protecting the vulnerable.
