Eight arrested for espionage in Subic Bay raid

Authorities in the Philippines have arrested six foreigners and two Filipinos linked to an illegal gaming operation in Subic Bay. The group is also suspected of spying. This operation took place on Grande Island, which is important for monitoring key sea routes in the West Philippine Sea. The arrests occurred during a raid by a joint team from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, National Bureau of Investigation, and Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority. The group included five Chinese nationals, one Cambodian, and two locals. The Department of National Defense (DND) stated that these arrests highlight serious security threats linked to illegal activities. One man, Qiu Feng (also known as Ye Tianwu), was arrested under multiple legal charges. The raid uncovered several electronic devices, a firearm, and ammunition. This is the first time the DND has made arrests related to illegal offshore gaming operations. The DND is considering designating Grande Island and nearby Chiquita Island as military areas to enhance security. Subic Bay has historical significance and was once a US military base. The area is about 260 kilometers from Bajo de Masinloc, a region currently controlled by China. In past years, there have been concerns about Chinese investments in strategic locations like Grande and Chiquita Islands. Many Chinese nationals who worked in offshore gaming have returned to China amid crackdowns on these operations. However, some remain unaccounted for after previous raids revealed illegal gaming activities.