Bacoor police foil espionage, cybercrime operation in coordinated arrest

BACOOR CITY, Cavite —Bacoor City police, in collaboration with provincial and national law enforcement units, arrested two individuals linked to suspected cyber espionage activities in the early hours of June 22, 2025.

The suspects, identified as Christian Louie of Makati City and Marcie of Quezon City, were apprehended near a convenience store in Brgy. Molino 6, Bacoor, during a joint operation involving the Bacoor Component City Police Station, Cavite Provincial Intelligence Unit (PIU), and the Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) – Cavite.

The operation was conducted under the supervision of Police Major Alexis S. Tuazon, officer-in-charge of the Bacoor police.

The arrest followed an intelligence report from a confidential informant who alerted authorities to ongoing espionage activities across Metro Manila and Region IV-A, allegedly involving foreign handlers.

Acting swiftly, patrolling officers PMSg Philbert Nogueras and Pat Ryan Joshua Maranga launched an Oplan Sita checkpoint, leading to the interception of the suspects’ vehicle — a Toyota Rush — which matched the informant’s description.

Upon inspection, officers discovered electronic surveillance devices and data interception equipment inside the vehicle, confirming suspicions of illicit cyber operations.

The suspects are now in police custody and face multiple charges under Republic Act No. 10175, or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012, including Misuse of Devices, Illegal Interception, and System Interference. They are also being charged under Commonwealth Act No. 616, or the Espionage Act of 1941.

Authorities have launched a deeper investigation to determine the full scope of the suspects’ activities and whether they are linked to foreign intelligence operations.

PCol. Dwight E. Alegre, Acting Provincial Director of the Cavite Police Provincial Office, praised the swift response of the arresting officers.

“This arrest demonstrates the dedication of our personnel to protect our communities not only from traditional crimes but also from the growing threats in the digital and intelligence domains. The Philippine National Police remains steadfast in our duty to uphold national security and the rule of law,” he said.

The Cavite Police continue to urge the public to report any suspicious activities that may pose risks to public safety and national security. (RBF, PIA Cavite)

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