THE National Bureau of Investigation’s Cybercrime Division (NBI-CCD) has dismantled a major cyber-scamming operation in Parañaque City, resulting in the arrest of Li Zhenjie, a Chinese national. Li faces charges under the “Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act” and the “Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012” for allegedly running a sophisticated social engineering scheme.
Acting on a tip, NBI agents discovered that the operation involved impersonating law enforcement officials from the New Haven Police Department and the FBI. The scammers reportedly used spoofed phone numbers to contact victims in the United States, demanding cryptocurrency payments of $3,000 to $5,000 to avoid fictitious online arrest warrants. The funds were to be transferred to an account under the alias “GENERAL.”
Armed with a Warrant to Search, Seize, and Examine Computer Data (WSSECD) granted by the Makati Regional Trial Court, NBI-CCD agents raided the condominium unit on November 21, 2025. The raid led to the seizure of devices containing critical social engineering scripts and the apprehension of Li.
“This operation clearly demonstrates the NBI’s effective and unwavering commitment to combating cybercrime,” stated OIC Director Atty. Angelito DLP Magno. He warned cybercriminals that the NBI remains “one step ahead” and dedicated to protecting the public from online exploitation. The NBI emphasized its commitment to public safety and cybercrime prevention.
