BIÑAN, Laguna — Philippine authorities have arrested Lyu Dong, known as “Boss Boga,” a purportedly influential figure among Philippine Overseas Gaming Operators (POGOs), during an operation on Thursday evening. The arrest occurred around 8 p.m. as he was leaving his residence in a local subdivision to attend a social event, according to the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC).
Lyu Dong is allegedly a key player in the operations of Lucky South 99, a POGO enterprise linked to various criminal activities, including the establishment of “scam farms” across multiple provinces. PAOCC spokesperson Winston Casio stated that Lyu’s capture is a significant advancement in efforts to dismantle illegal POGO operations.
Casio reported that there was “minor resistance” during the arrest, but Lyu Dong and nine armed associates were taken into custody without any injuries.
Investigators are also exploring whether Lyu is among the notable POGO personalities that Bamban Mayor Alice Guo has refused to name during Senate hearings. PAOCC Executive Director Gilbert Cruz indicated, “We’re figuring out if his name is among those she didn’t want to mention because she’s aware that he is still here in the country.” He added that Guo frequently discusses individuals who have already left the Philippines.
The name “Hao-Hao,” meaning “Boss of the boss” in Chinese, hints at Lyu Dong’s status in the POGO hierarchy. Cruz disclosed that some of Lyu’s POGOs continue to operate despite a government directive to cease operations and exit the country by year-end. “Lyu Dong established many POGOs, and we’re looking into his involvement,” Cruz stated.
Cruz recalled that Lyu was named during the task force’s application for a search warrant for Lucky South 99 in Porac, Pampanga, prior to its raid. “When we were looking for him, he used a chopper, making it difficult for us to track him,” he said.
Reports indicate that Lyu Dong was protected by multiple bodyguards, including motorcycle-riding security personnel who monitored the area before his departure.
Lyu Dong is currently detained at the PAOCC Detention Facility as investigations continue. His arrest was made possible through collaboration between the Bureau of Immigration, the Department of Justice, the Intelligence Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (ISAFP), and the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking.
