QUEZON CITY, (PIA) — The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) National Capital Region on Tuesday warned that organ trafficking methods have evolved, as the agency intensified its crackdown, recently apprehending perpetrators involved in the illegal sale of kidneys.
During the 19th edition of the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas media forum with NBI NCR Regional Director Rommel J. Vallejo, Senior Investigation Agent Atty. Bethyl Joy P. Porras emphasized the need for public awareness regarding these modern trafficking methods.
“While we often hear urban legends about ‘white vans’ abducting individuals, the reality is that many victims are recruited online to sell their kidneys,” Porras said. “It’s disheartening to see that most crimes are now facilitated through digital platforms.”
She said NBI NCR is continuing its efforts to dismantle these trafficking networks and protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation, reminding the public to remain vigilant against both traditional and digital forms of predatory crime.
The agency also reported that organ trafficking victims were successfully rescued following a recent operation in Quezon City.
“Our latest operation took place in Quezon City, where we arrested individuals involved in this heinous crime,” Supervising Agent Charles Poso said. He noted that the investigation is ongoing, particularly concerning the involvement of a local hospital in the scheme.
While Poso refrained from naming the hospital due to the ongoing investigation, he assured the public that the NBI is dedicated to pursuing legal action against all parties involved, especially those who exploit vulnerable individuals.
“These perpetrators take advantage of people’s desperation, encouraging them to sell their organs,” he said.
According to Poso, the price for a kidney can range from P150,000 to P200,000.
He, meanwhile, shared a troubling account from one victim who reported being underpaid.
“The victim was only given P50,000 after the organ was harvested, leaving him with a debt of P100,000 to the traffickers,” he explained.
The NBI NCR is continuing its efforts to dismantle these trafficking networks and protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation, reminding the public to remain vigilant against both traditional and digital forms of predatory crime.
The weekly Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas media forum is being presented by the Presidential Communications Office and the Philippine Information Agency-NCR. (JVD/PIA-NCR)
