PNP stepping up cyber patrol vs extremist websites

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine National Police – Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) said it will strengthen its cyber patrol operations to go after websites used for promoting violent extremism.

“We are now looking into some online sites that may serve as a platform to promote and provide open grounds to plot and exhibit violence and terrorism,” Brig. Gen. Dennis Agustin, PNP-ACG director, said in a statement on Wednesday.

The cyber-police unit said it intensified its patrols due to the rampant terrorism-related activities in online platforms, including the 8chan online messaging board that was recently linked to mass shootings in the United States.

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Agustin said more intensive patrolling may also help pinpoint the whereabouts and online operations of 8chan owner Jim Watkins, who is believed to be in the Philippines.

READ: 8chan operator probably still in PH – Guevarra

Agustin also confirmed that Watkins could still be in the country “but has since moved out in his leased apartment.” /gsg