NBI identifies 60 alleged online groomers in Tacloban school shooting probe

The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Eastern Visayas office has identified at least 60 individuals suspected of grooming minors online in connection with the June 22 shooting at San Jose National High School in Tacloban City. NBI Eastern Visayas Regional Director Jeremy Lotoc stated that the group includes both minors and foreigners belonging to various online networks.

Investigators are currently reviewing approximately 200 additional individuals. While not all 60 identified subjects had direct contact with the shooters, Lotoc noted they exert influence through their networks. The investigation is examining organizational structures, recruitment methods, and potential links to extremist groups.

The bureau described the phenomenon as nihilistic violent extremism, where local and foreign actors allegedly radicalize minors via social media and gaming platforms. Additionally, the investigation identified eight minors in Tacloban exposed to online grooming and sadistic exploitation, including one three-year-old child.