MANILA — The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has apprehended an individual in Pasig City for falsification of documents, computer-related fraud and possession of illegal drugs.

The arrest followed a complaint lodged by Gardenia Bakeries Philippines. The company accused certain individuals of economic sabotage, illegal access, and computer-related fraud. 

According to NBI Director Jaime Santiago, these individuals accessed Gardenia's Shell Fleet Hub Account without authorization, creating new users to illegally acquire diesel and gasoline products from various Shell Gasoline Stations. 

The total amount involved was P14,475,556.26.

"Nagtataka sila, bakit 'yung purchase nila ng gasoline, tumataas... Nag-[seek] sila ng help mula sa aming counter-intelligence unit. Naging fruitful, nag-apply kami ng cyber warrant," said Santiago.

An investigation revealed that unauthorized IP addresses had accessed the account, leading to the creation of several fraudulent Shell Fleet Hub accounts. Evidence and witness statements identified as certain "Gary" and other residents of #22 Ausmolo Compound, Laya St., Buting, Pasig City as the suspects.

Acting on a warrant under Section 10 of Republic Act No. 10175 (Cybersecurity Act of 2012) to Search, Seize, and Examine Computer Data, operatives from the NBI-Counter Intelligence Division (NBI-CID) and NBI-Cybercrime Division (NBI-CCD) conducted a raid on the target location. 

During the search, several electronic devices and three counterfeit IDs were recovered. Additionally, drug paraphernalia was found in the suspect's bedroom. Tests conducted by the NBI-Forensic Chemistry Division confirmed the presence of methamphetamine on the improvised tooters found.

"So sinubject namin siya sa examination drug exam he was found positive for using drugs," Santiago said.

The suspect was then presented for inquest proceedings before the Pasig City Prosecutor's Office for violating Sections 12 and 15 of RA 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act) and Article 172 (Falsification by Private Individual and Use of Falsified Documents) of the Revised Penal Code. 

The results of the forensic examination will be included in the final report and will serve as primary evidence in the direct filing of computer-related fraud cases against the suspects.