PNP ARRESTS 67 IN ANTI-CYBERCRIME CRACKDOWN VS MONEY MULES IN EARLY 2026

The Philippine National Police-Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) arrested 67 individuals in 60 nationwide operations from January to February 2026 for violating the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act (AFASA).
Authorities targeted “money mules” involved in the illegal sale and misuse of financial accounts such as ATM cards, online banking profiles, and e-wallets, often used in scams, phishing, and illegal gambling.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. stressed that these crimes have serious impacts and are not victimless, warning that authorities will continue pursuing those exploiting others for profit.
The intensified campaign is part of the PNP’s broader effort to strengthen cybercrime enforcement and protect financial systems amid growing digital threats and global economic pressures.
The public was urged to remain vigilant, avoid sharing or selling financial accounts, and report suspicious activities, as syndicates may exploit economic hardships to recruit accomplices.