Police arrested 172 individuals after uncovering an alleged illegal e-sabong den operating inside Vitas Coliseum in Tondo, Manila, seizing computers, cameras, and fighting cocks.
Authorities said 132 bettors were released after documentation, while management staff, gaffers, and operators remain detained and will face charges under illegal gambling and cybercrime laws.
Investigators revealed the operation ran 24/7 with up to 500 fights daily, each generating significant bets, despite a nationwide suspension of e-sabong under a 2022 executive order.
The CIDG is now probing possible lapses by local officials and the involvement of influential individuals behind the large-scale operation, with potential asset investigations through the Anti-Money Laundering Council.
In a separate operation, two suspects were arrested in Batangas for selling stolen racing pigeons worth PHP2.1 million, with 43 pigeons recovered and charges filed under the Anti-Fencing Law and Cybercrime Act.
172 ARRESTED IN MANILA E-SABONG RAID; ILLEGAL 24/7 OPERATIONS EXPOSED
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