OPERATIVES of the PNP Women and Children Protection Center (WCPC) rescued 14 victims of human trafficking in Rizal, Palawan last week, the PNP reported yesterday.
In a press briefing at Camp Crame, PNP Public Information Office chief Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño said the operation also resulted in the arrest of four recruiters.
The victims, all adults, were rescued while about to leave the country, through the back door.
Tuaño said the operation was conducted in collaboration with the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission and the Department of Migrant Workers.
Tuaño said the victims were promised jobs as customer service representatives in Cambodia, Myanmar and Thailand with a monthly salary ranging from $800 to $1,000.
“But the truth is that the victims will be working in cryptocurrency scam hubs,” said Tuaño.
He said the victims are currently under the care of the PNP in Palawan.
Tuaño said charges of syndicated and large-scale illegal recruitment, and promoting trafficking in persons are being readied against the suspects.
“Anyone found guilty of trafficking in persons faces the penalty of life imprisonment and a fine of up to P5 million,” said Tuaño.
WCPC information chief Maj. Shari Vanneza Deseo said the victims were recruited by the suspects through Facebook.
