NBI arrests 2 Chinese, 3 others for ‘spying’
The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) presents the equipment used by the suspects for their espionage activities. (PHOTO FROM NBI)
MANILA, Philippines — The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) on Tuesday said it arrested five individuals, including two Chinese nationals for alleged in Manila.
The NBI identified the suspects as Ni Qinhui, his wife Zheng Wei, as well as a certain Omar Khan Kashim Joveres, Leo Laraya Panti and Mark Angelo Boholst Binza.
Based on information provided by the NBI, the five suspects were arrested after its Cybercrime Division (CCD) and Special Task Force (STF) were alerted of vehicles reportedly utilizing International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI) catchers while frequenting military and police camps, essential facilities as well government assets within Metro Manila on Feb. 14.
After verifying the information, CCD and STF agents detected unlicensed BTS, unauthorized transmissions, and interference sources.
BTS refers to unauthorized or malicious base stations that pose as cellular towers to intercept, manipulate, or disrupt mobile networks, often for surveillance, data theft, or network disruption.
Article continues after this advertisementWith the findings, the NBI immediately conducted interdiction operations on Feb. 20, which led to the arrest of Joveres, Panti and Binza.
Article continues after this advertisementThe three said they were commissioned by Ni, and were instructed to drive through key areas, including Villamor Airbase, Camp Aguinaldo, Malacañang, Camp Crame, and the U.S. Embassy, among others, in exchange for P2,500 to P3,000 daily for a month.
NBI agents then proceeded to Ni’s condominium unit in Malate, Manila where he was arrested together with his wife.
Zheng admitted that Ni had several IMSI catchers in their condo unit and that he did employ the three other suspects.
“To prove that she has nothing to do with it, Melody voluntarily surrendered multiple sets of said equipment (IMSI catchers, among others), to the NBI operatives,” said the NBI.
The suspects were presented for inquest proceedings before the Office of the State Prosecutor, Department of Justice, for violation of Republic Act 10175 or Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012, as well as Commonwealth Act No. 616.
