MANILA — Agents of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) arrested a woman identified by the alias “Lele” in Marikina City over allegations of facilitating live online sexual abuse of a minor.

The alleged crime was a violation of Republic Act No. 11930 or the Anti-Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) law.

The arrest was carried out by the NBI’s Human Trafficking Division (NBI-HTRAD) following a tip-off from Belgian authorities.

According to a report from the Police Antwerpen Defensor Liberatis, a search of a Belgian national’s residence led to the discovery of online exchanges with the suspect via Skype.

Forensic analysis of the foreign national’s seized device revealed that “Lele” had been paid to livestream the sexual abuse of her 10-year-old niece.

Acting on this lead, the NBI-HTRAD launched surveillance operations and located both the suspect and the minor victim. Agents then secured a warrant to search, seize, and examine computer data (WSSECD) from the Marikina Regional Trial Court Branch 7.

During the July 7 operation, forensic examiners found child sexual abuse materials on Lele’s mobile phone, prompting her immediate arrest and inquest proceedings.

NBI Director Jaime B. Santiago (Ret.) praised the work of NBI-HTRAD agents and reiterated the bureau’s resolve to protect children from online sexual exploitation: “This arrest sends a strong message that the NBI, in coordination with local and international partners, will relentlessly pursue those who exploit our children.”