Australian nabbed for human trafficking

CEBU, Philippines – A 61-year-old Australian national facing arrest warrant for human trafficking was nabbed yesterday morning by operatives of San Francisco Police Station in Barangay Consuelo of the town.

Michael Refalo was arrested inside an Internet café on the strength of the warrant of arrest issued by Regional Trial Court Branch 61 Judge Antonio Marigomen in Bogo City.

Refalo is facing two counts of human trafficking charges after he was accused of sexually molesting at least 14 minors.

San Francisco Police Station chief Senior Inspector Caesar Misola said Refalo was placed under surveillance after the Provincial Women’s Commission through the office of Vice Governor Agnes Magpale coordinated with them after receiving information that the accused is hiding in the town.

Misola said they found out that Refalo is renting an apartment in San Francisco and is believed to be engaged in illegal activities.

“Sa Barangay Consuelo nag-rent siya and then mayron siyang mga kaibigan nga pinuntahan na foreigner. Napag-alaman namin na medyo suspicious itong Australian, nakig-coordinate tayo sa office ng Vice Governor. Actually ang information ay galing sa kanila,” Misola said.

It was the office of the vice governor that relayed the information to the police that Refalo was wanted for human trafficking.

After having obtained a copy of the warrant of arrest yesterday morning, the policemen immediately arrested Refalo.

Refalo, who is facing a non-bailable offense, will be turned over to the court today. He is also expected to be presented to Magpale. — (FREEMAN)