SENATOR Grace Poe has called for intensified action against illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) following the kidnapping of a Chinese student, which authorities have linked to a POGO-related syndicate.

Poe expressed grave concern over the continued presence of criminal elements tied to these operations, despite the government’s official ban on POGOs.

“The kidnapping of the Chinese student, which police have linked to a POGO syndicate, raises a serious public safety issue,” Poe stated.

She emphasized that such incidents highlight the ongoing dangers posed by illegal POGO operations, which continue underground even after being officially shut down.

Poe warned that authorities must not allow ex-POGO operators to continue their illicit activities as if nothing had changed.

“It can’t be business as usual for these ex-POGO operators that we have banished from our country,” she asserted.

She called on law enforcement agencies to remain vigilant and proactive in dismantling syndicates that threaten public safety.

The senator stressed the importance of strong enforcement to ensure that criminal elements tied to POGOs do not regain a foothold in the country.

“Authorities must go after these syndicates without letup to show the true strength of our laws,” she said, urging law enforcement to take swift and decisive action.

The latest kidnapping case serves as a stark reminder of the challenges authorities continue to face in fully eliminating the influence of these groups.

Poe reiterated her commitment to ensuring that the government remains firm in its stance against illegal POGOs and their associated syndicates, calling for continued efforts to protect public safety.