The Scientific Criminal Investigation Police detained 99 foreign nationals in an operation against cyber fraud and illegal online gambling.

The operation, which commenced at 20:30, resulted in the detention of 99 foreign nationals, predominantly of Chinese and Cambodian nationality, who are currently held in the custody of the PCIC. The size of the group involved was larger than initial investigations had indicated. For this reason, during the operation, 19 persons managed to escape and are currently being sought by the authorities. In the course of the operation, the following assets were seized: • 88 desktop computers; • 13 portable computers (laptops); • 27 mobile telephones; • 3 Starlink units; • a sum of money in currency, the value of which has yet to be accounted for. The PCIC's chief investigator, Otávio da Costa Araújo, clarified that the investigation had been ongoing for a month prior to the execution of the operation, during which a group of suspects allegedly involved in illicit online gambling activities and cyber fraud was identified. This investigation enabled the operational team to identify the location where the alleged crimes were being committed and to carry out the arrests in flagrante delicto. The premises, a warehouse, were maintained under a high level of security, including a video surveillance system (CCTV) to monitor the entry and exit of persons, as well as access controls to the building restricted to holders of specific identification cards. The investigations at the site established that the majority of the detained foreign nationals did not have their respective passports in their possession. The documents were in the possession of third parties, who have already been identified and who will be subject to detention. According to the investigation, the network is suspected of having committed cyber fraud against victims in various countries, including Timor-Leste. The investigation team continues its work of identifying the suspects and the fugitives still being sought, completing a full inventory of the money and equipment seized, and deepening its enquiries with a view to identifying any other individuals who may be involved in the criminal network. The PCIC affirms that all persons detained and all assets seized are being kept in a secure location, and undertakes to release the final and complete assessment of the operation in due course, including the amount of money seized.