CEBU CITY — Following a major raid on an illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) hub, the National Bureau of Investigation Central Visayas (NBI 7) will request court authorization to inspect crucial evidence. The raid, conducted on August 31 at a resort in Lapu-Lapu City, led to the seizure of vaults and computers that are now considered vital to the investigation. NBI 7 Director Renan Oliva said on September 16 that the agency intends to apply for a warrant to access the data stored in the seized computers and to open the vaults. The step is believed to be essential as the NBI 7, under the direction of Jaime Santiago, seeks to build a potential money laundering case against those involved in operating the illegal POGO hub in Barangay Agus. Oliva emphasized the significance of the seized items which are expected to be pivotal in the investigation. In addition to pursuing money laundering charges, authorities are also seeking to forfeit assets related to the POGO hub. Regional State Prosecutor Graeme June Elmido confirmed that 17 Chinese and a Filipino now face human trafficking charges. The suspects underwent inquest proceedings following the raid. Elmido noted that constructing a solid money laundering case is still under way, requiring access to the data and financial records found in the seized equipment. The suspects remain in custody with the Public Attorney's Office in Manila and face additional administrative charges for lacking proper immigration documentation. The raid, which led to the rescue of nearly 200 individuals, marked a significant action against illegal POGO operations in the province. The operation was in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s nationwide ban on online gaming activities announced during his State of the Nation Address last July 22.