Authorities in the Philippines have launched a nationwide manhunt for Harry Roque, former spokesperson for President Rodrigo Duterte, as part of an investigation into illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs). Roque is accused of withholding critical documents related to his involvement with Lucky South 99, a POGO hub, and his role as its alleged legal head. Cited twice for contempt by the House of Representatives, Roque’s evasion has fueled suspicions of his deeper involvement in the offshore gaming scandal. Multiple law enforcement agencies are now working together to locate Roque, who is believed to be in hiding.
The controversy centers on alleged criminal activities linked to POGOs, including online scams and human trafficking. The authorities have discovered mass graves near one such facility, intensifying the gravity of the case. Roque’s flight from justice adds further weight to suspicions regarding his ties to the operations. The Philippine National Police, alongside the National Bureau of Investigation, are fully involved in the manhunt.
Evidence Mounts Against Roque
Roque’s involvement in POGO-related crimes came to light after documents connected to him were found during a raid at Lucky South 99. The site, notorious for human trafficking and other illicit activities, has raised red flags among lawmakers, prompting a joint investigation by the Philippine House of Representatives. Roque’s connection to the facility deepened when Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) chairman Alejandro Tengco revealed that Roque pressured PAGCOR to grant licenses to questionable operations.
Despite his disappearance, Roque has remained active on social media, branding the investigation a “kangaroo court” and denying all accusations. However, lawmakers like Robert Ace Barbers and Dan Fernandez argue that Roque’s flight indicates guilt. Both have emphasized that evidence against Roque is overwhelming, especially given his refusal to cooperate with authorities.
POGO Scandal Grows
Roque is not the only high-profile figure involved in the POGO scandal. Former mayor Alice Guo, arrested earlier in Indonesia, has been extradited back to the Philippines. She faces charges of human trafficking, money laundering, and tax evasion. Another key figure, Huang Zhiyang, is still at large, reportedly hiding in Hong Kong. Authorities, including the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol), are involved in the global manhunt for Huang, underscoring the scandal’s vast scope.
The investigation into Roque and other POGO-related individuals sheds light on the broader issue of corruption and crime within the offshore gaming sector in the Philippines. As the manhunt continues, the public is encouraged to report any information that could lead to Roque’s capture.
Source:
Harry Roque on the run: PNP joins the hunt, globalnation.inquirer.net, September 14, 2024.
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