NBI nabs teen for alleged child exploitation via Roblox

MANILA, Philippines — A 19-year-old suspect was arrested for allegedly producing child sexual abuse or exploitation material through the online gaming platform Roblox, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) said Saturday.

In a press release, the NBI said the suspect allegedly persuaded a minor to engage in online sexual activity and send sexually exploitative images in exchange for Robux, the virtual currency used in Roblox.

The NBI said the suspect is facing charges for alleged violations of Republic Act No. 11930, or the Anti-Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children and Anti-Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials Act.

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READ: Current Roblox age identification has ‘loopholes’ — CICC

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Further digital investigation also linked the suspect to multiple CyberTipline Reports involving in an online enticement for sexual exploitation and distribution of child sexual abuse materials using various online accounts.

A previous complaint involving a 10-year-old victim showed the suspect practicing similar operations to coerce and exploit the child through Roblox.

READ: Child victims of online sexual exploitation rescued in Cavite – NBI

The bureau also seized the suspect’s mobile phone, which it said contained numerous child sexual abuse or exploitation materials discovered during a forensic examination.

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The suspect was also discovered actively communicating with a 12-year-old, according to the NBI.

The operation stemmed from the referral from the Department of Justice’s Office of Cybercrime regarding reports of online enticement of a minor for the production of child pornography.

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The suspect underwent inquest proceedings before the Office of the Provincial Prosecutor in Pampanga on July 1 for the filing of appropriate criminal charges under Republic Act No. 11930. /jpv

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