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MANILA, Philippines — The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) on Tuesday said it arrested three individuals for alleged kidney trafficking in Bulacan and rescued nine victims during the operation.
Authorities said Angela Atayde, Marichu Lomibao, and Dannel Sicat were arrested in Brgy. Tungkong Mangga, San Jose del Monte City on July 11.
However, the alleged ringleader identified as Allan Ligaya, a head nurse at the National Kidney and Transplant Institute, remains at large, the NBI added.
Authorities said the suspects facilitated the transfer of kidneys conducted in a house in Brgy. Tungkong Mangga. The victims received P200,000 in exchange for their organs.
The NBI said it is also investigating a Facebook group allegedly being used for organ trafficking.
The arrested individuals were presented for inquest proceedings for violating the Expanded Anti-Human Trafficking Act.
The inquest proceeding determines whether an individual arrested without a warrant will be released on account of dismissal of charges, released for further preliminary investigation proceedings, or charged in court.
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