In a significant development, the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) confirmed that the individual arrested in a raid in Tuba, Benguet, on Saturday is a Chinese national. PAOCC Undersecretary Gilbert Cruz disclosed that the suspect, who was initially identified as a Cambodian national, has been using a fake identity.
“The suspect’s real name is Sun Liming, born on November 21, 1987. He is wanted in China for the illegal disbursement of public funds,” Cruz revealed. This revelation contradicts the suspect’s earlier claims of being a Cambodian national, further complicating the situation.
The raid, which took place in a residential property in Tuba, has brought to light significant issues surrounding the suspect’s background and activities. Sun Liming, allegedly a POGO (Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator) boss, has been under the radar of law enforcement agencies for his involvement in illegal activities. His arrest is seen as a significant breakthrough in the ongoing efforts to curb organized crime linked to the offshore gaming industry.
Adding another layer of controversy to the case, the raided property was initially reported to be owned by former Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque. However, Roque has categorically denied ownership of the property. In a statement, Roque clarified, “The property is registered under a corporation, and while I may have an interest in it, I do not own it outright.”
Panoorin; Paliwanag ni Atty. Harry Roque hinggil sa pagkakadawit sa bahay sa Tuba Benguet kung saan may nahuling 2 foreign nationals. pic.twitter.com/sy7uxRmiBg
— robert mano (@robertmano47) July 29, 2024
Roque’s denial comes amid speculation and media scrutiny, emphasizing that his connection to the property is limited to a corporate interest rather than personal ownership. This distinction is crucial as it separates him from any direct involvement in the illegal activities associated with the property.
The incident has sparked discussions about the integrity and regulation of properties linked to high-profile individuals and corporations. It also highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in identifying and apprehending foreign nationals involved in criminal activities under assumed identities.
The PAOCC’s successful operation and the subsequent identification of Sun Liming as a Chinese national underline the importance of cross-border cooperation in tackling organized crime. As the investigation continues, authorities are expected to coordinate with their Chinese counterparts to address the charges against Sun and potentially facilitate his extradition.
This case serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in combating organized crime and the necessity for stringent measures to ensure that properties and individuals involved in illegal activities are held accountable. The PAOCC’s vigilance and thorough investigation have brought to light critical details that could pave the way for more robust enforcement against criminal elements operating under the guise of legality.
Sinalakay ng mga awtoridad ang bahay ni dating presidential spokesperson Harry Roque sa Pinewoods Golf and Country Club sa Tuba, Benguet.
— Cheeky Lady (@CheekyLady1027) July 28, 2024
Sa operasyon, dalawang Chinese nationals ang dinampot na hinihinalang konektado sa Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO). pic.twitter.com/15wcZbjawi
As developments unfold, the public remains keenly interested in the outcomes of this high-profile case and its implications for the broader fight against organized crime in the Philippines.