Chinese hacker linked to POGOs nabbed

MANILA, Philippines — A Chinese hacker linked to Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGOs) has been arrested by agents of the Bureau of Immigration (BI) in San Fernando, La Union.

Lin Qiude, 40, was arrested by the BI’s fugitive search unit (FSU) with the help of other law enforcement agencies at the Poro Point Freeport on July 20, according to BI Commissioner Norman Tansingco.

Reports said Lin is said to be one of the “big bosses” at Lucky South 99, the alleged operator of a POGO hub in Porac, Pampanga that was recently raided.

The Chinese police has confirmed with the BI that Lin is wanted for fraud in China.

Chinese authorities said an arrest warrant has been issued against Lin by a prosecutor in Anxi County, where he was charged with fraud.

Tansingco described Lin’s arrest as a “major win,” noting the suspect has victimized people worldwide.

Authorities expressed belief that Lin could be behind the hacking of banks in the United States, Middle East and Europe.

The suspect is detained at the BI custodial facility at Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City.

Aside from the BI-FSU, the arresting team was composed of members of the BI’s intelligence division, Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission, the Philippine National Police and the Armed Forces of the Philippines.