PNP: No hand in Chinese ‘spy’ arrest, security already in place

PNP: No hand in Chinese ‘spy’ arrest, security measures already in place

/ 09:37 PM January 21, 2025

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Tuesday clarified that it had no involvement in the operation that captured an alleged Chinese spy, assuring that physical and digital security measures were already in place.

A suspected Chinese “sleeper agent,” along with two Filipino cohorts, involved in espionage activities targeting military and police installations was arrested last Monday by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

READ: Chinese engineer, 2 Filipinos nabbed for espionage targeting PH security

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In a statement, the national police force said, “[W]e would like to clarify that the PNP had no direct involvement or participation in this particular operation.”

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READ: Chinese national arrested in Makati; suspected hacking devices seized

“Before that incident even happened, the security clearance of all individuals entering Camp Crame was already in place, especially the security clearance to access documents,” PNP Public Information Office chief Col. Rudolf Tuaño told reporters in a press briefing at Camp Crame on Tuesday afternoon.

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The PNP also touted its efforts to bolster digital security through the Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG), the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) and the Directorate for Intelligence.

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The CIDG last May caught a Chinese national with alleged hacking equipment in his properties in the cities of Makati and Parañaque.

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CIDG Public Information Office chief Col. Imelda Reyes said they are looking into all the possibilities as to why the suspect owned such high-tech gadgets, including the possibility that he is a “spy.”

Further, the police force said the security infrastructure was supported by its Cyber Security Operations Center.

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“This center represents a pivotal initiative in securing the nation’s digital landscape. By leveraging cutting-edge technology and expertise, we are not only mitigating current threats but also proactively safeguarding against emerging risks in the digital domain,” the PNP said in the statement.

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TAGS: Chinese spy, PNP

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