Manila, Philippines – Authorities have arrested Lin Xunhan, a Chinese national accused of running an extensive network of scam farms across the Philippines, during a government crackdown on illicit online operations. The 33-year-old was detained on Oct 10 in Binan city, south of Manila, following a raid that also led to the arrest of another Chinese suspect and nine Filipino bodyguards.
Lin, a native of Fujian Province, has been labeled a significant figure in organized crime. According to the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), Lin has been running scam farms in the Philippines since 2016, using legal businesses as fronts to disguise his criminal activities. His network has been linked to numerous other crimes, including kidnappings, prostitution, human trafficking, torture, and murder.
Complex Scam Network
Lin’s scam farms, which often involve victims of human trafficking, coerce or trick individuals into investing in fraudulent cryptocurrency ventures and other scams. Despite previous raids and shutdowns, many of Lin’s operations have persisted, posing ongoing challenges to law enforcement.
Government Crackdown on Online Crime
In July 2024, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. outlawed offshore gaming operators, including internet gaming license holders, as part of a broader effort to combat online fraud and criminal networks. Thousands of foreign workers linked to these illegal operations were given two months to leave the country.
During the recent raid on Lin’s residence, authorities seized three handguns, highlighting the dangerous nature of his operations. The PAOCC emphasized that Lin remains a significant concern within the Philippines’ criminal landscape, and efforts to dismantle his operations are ongoing.
Conclusion
Lin Xunhan’s arrest marks a critical step in the Philippine government’s efforts to crack down on online fraud and human trafficking. His detention is part of a broader effort to dismantle organized crime networks that have plagued the region for years.