The NBI cautioned the public against online lending scams and highlighted the arrest of a Chinese woman involved in an online collection scam. Director Rommel Vallejo emphasized the importance of being cautious and vigilant against these scams, which are considered a menace to society.
The NBI-NCR arrested the Chinese woman, Mi Duan, who was involved in extorting money from borrowers through deceptive and coercive methods. The investigation was prompted by a complaint from a victim who borrowed money through the 24HPeso app but was threatened and harassed by agents even after fully paying back the loan.
The NBI found that the 24HPeso app contained malware that allowed access to the victim’s phonebook, which was used to coerce, harass, and threaten her. The law enforcement operation resulted in the seizure of various devices and documents from the lending company’s office in Pasay City.
Filipino collection agents testified that they were coerced and harassed by the lending company to meet daily quotas, and they will serve as witnesses for the government. The operation was thoroughly documented to comply with legal requirements and ensure accountability.
The NBI’s actions aim to protect the public from online lending scams and hold perpetrators accountable for their illegal activities.
