THE Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has announced a reward of up to US$25,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of a Filipino national implicated in the online sexual exploitation of minors.
The suspect, identified as 28-year-old Austin Jan Sy Yatco, also known by the alias “Hairy Lips,” is from San Pedro, Laguna.
According to the FBI’s wanted poster, Yatco is accused of participating in an online group that operated between 2019 and 2021. This group allegedly coerced minor victims into creating child pornography, which was then distributed among its members via gaming and social media platforms.
A federal arrest warrant was issued for Yatco on January 23 by the United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York, charging him with conspiracy to produce child pornography and conspiracy to receive and distribute material involving the sexual exploitation of minors.
Authorities believe Yatco has connections to both Texas and the Philippines and is currently believed to be residing in the Philippines. The FBI is urging the public to come forward with any information that could aid in locating the suspect.
Those with information are encouraged to contact the FBI’s toll-free hotline at 1-800-225-5324, reach out to their nearest FBI field office, or submit tips through the FBI’s official website.
The FBI’s initiative underscores the serious nature of online child exploitation and the international cooperation required to combat such crimes. The substantial reward offered highlights the bureau’s determination to bring Yatco to justice and protect vulnerable minors from exploitation. The public’s assistance is crucial in apprehending individuals involved in these heinous acts.
