MANILA— The National Bureau of Investigation arrested five Chinese nationals for alleged illegal detention and rescued a Chinese victim in Parañaque City on March 31, 2026.

The operation stemmed from a complaint filed by a friend of the victim, who said the individual had been held against his will in a residential house since March 29. The victim was reportedly forced to participate in an online love scam under the direction of a suspect known as “Boss Aping” and was allegedly beaten and threatened with death if he attempted to escape.

Following a surveillance and validation operation, NBI-NCR agents conducted a rescue operation at the target residence. The victim positively identified the five arrested individuals as his abductors. The suspects were then presented for inquest proceedings at the Parañaque City Prosecutor’s Office for violations of Article 267 (Illegal Detention) of the Revised Penal Code.

NBI Director Melvin A. Matibag commended the NCR agents for their “outstanding performance” and reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to upholding the law and ensuring public safety.

Director Matibag also assured the public that the NBI will continue to strengthen operations to combat crime and maintain public trust.

NBIServes