POGO HUB PROBE: NBI-7 to summon businessman

Local

THE National Bureau of Investigation-Central Visayas (NBI-7) will summon a Cebuano businessman next week regarding his ownership of the Tourist Garden Hotel in Barangay Agus, Lapu-Lapu City.

The hotel is linked to a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) hub run by Chinese national Zhao Shouqi, who faces charges of human trafficking and money laundering.

Arnel Pura, head of the NBI Cebu District Office, confirmed in an interview with a TV news program that the businessman will be questioned about his lease agreement with Zhao.

Based on reports, NBI agents found the lease documents during a raid on November 5. The lease, signed in 2018, is for 30 years at an annual fee of P6 million with a P30 million security bond.

Zhao expanded the compound with new facilities for POGO operations, restaurants, and a KTV, although the lease prohibits illegal use.

"Sa contract of lease nakabutang didto nga the property should not be used for illegal purposes. So, if the lessee will use it for illegal purpose, automatic... ang contract at the same time the bonds 'yong downpayment or security guarantee will be forfeited," he said.

During a recent raid, agents seized over P400,000 in cash, adding to the P8.2 million taken in September, bringing the total to P8.9 million.

They also found ledgers, accounting records, and bank transactions, which will help support anti-money laundering and human trafficking charges against 17 individuals, including Zhao and his son, Zhao Long.

In a previous raid on August 31, authorities rescued 169 foreign nationals trafficked for labor. Immigration violations were filed against them, and the NBI charged 17 foreigners with human trafficking.

The NBI has secured the confiscated items under a court order for its anti-money laundering case.(MyTVCebu)