MANILA, Philippines — Authorities have arrested two individuals in Tondo, Manila, for their alleged involvement in the illegal sale of pre-registered SIM cards, a practice the government warned is increasingly used to facilitate digital crimes.
The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) conducted the operation last Wednesday, tracking the suspects to a store in Barangay 263. The arrest highlights the ongoing crackdown on violations of the SIM Registration Act, as law enforcement seeks to dismantle networks that provide anonymity to scammers and fraudsters.
The suspects, identified by the aliases “Mel” and “Angel,” were reportedly employees of the targeted store.
- Confiscated Items: CIDG agents seized an unspecified number of pre-registered and regular SIM cards.
- Tech Equipment: Also recovered were seven cellphones, a desktop computer set, and a digital video recorder.
- Estimated Value: The total value of the confiscated goods and equipment was placed at ₱700,000.
The CIDG issued a stern warning to the public regarding the use of these “ready-to-use” cards.
- Anonymity for Criminals: Pre-registered cards are often registered using stolen data or fake identities, allowing criminals to commit fraud, phishing, and digital lending abuse without being traced.
- Framing Innocents: Using another person’s information can lead to the original, unknowing owner being framed for illegal activities.
- Legal Liability: Authorities emphasized that buying or using these cards directly links a user to illegal activities and carries heavy legal consequences.
The suspects are currently in CIDG custody and are facing charges for violating Section 7 of Republic Act No. 11934 (the SIM Registration Act). Under this law, the sale or transfer of a registered SIM without complying with the required registration process is strictly prohibited.
The arrest comes as lawmakers, including Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, explore potential amendments to the SIM Registration Act to further tighten security and prevent the proliferation of “scam hubs” that utilize bulk-registered cards.
Citizens are encouraged to report any stores or individuals selling pre-registered SIM cards to the nearest police station or through the CIDG’s official hotlines.