The NCRPO Regional Special Operations Group, in a recent operation, has successfully apprehended Edgardo Silvano Jr., dubbed the “Hacker of Asia,” notorious for scamming foreigners through illegal online activities.

Silvano’s arrest followed intelligence reports revealing his cybercrime activities victimizing unsuspecting foreigners.

NCRPO (National Capital Region Police Office) Regional Intelligence Division chief Police Colonel Jess Mendez highlighted the suspect’s hacking prowess, labeling him the “Hacker of Asia.”

Silvano’s arrest exposed a stash of illegal possessions, including a 9mm gun, several phones, tablets, laptops, routers, and desktops.

Silvano, who had previously been arrested in 2016 for possession of counterfeit credit cards, laptops, and card printers, defended himself, saying, “Wala akong ginagawang mali, maipapaliwanag yung mga properties ko” (I am not doing anything wrong, and I can explain my properties).

Authorities plan to conduct a comprehensive financial investigation to scrutinize Silvano’s wealth accumulation, which includes eight big bikes, a sports car, a pick-up, and various properties across provinces, totaling over P100 million, GMA News reported.

NCRPO is set to collaborate with the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) for the investigation.

This recent development sheds light on Silvano’s illegal activities, prompting authorities to dig into his financial transactions and properties.

All seized devices will undergo digital forensic examination, serving as crucial evidence in the ongoing investigation and future court proceedings.

NCRPO director Police Major General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. provided insight into Silvano’s past, stating that he was once considered Asia’s number one hacker.

The suspect had faced legal consequences in Hong Kong during 2001 for hacking into an international financial institution.