American arrested after nine females, including teen, rescued from Cebu condo

A 59-year-old American national was arrested on October 14 after police rescued nine females, including a 15-year-old girl, who were allegedly being held against their will inside his rented condominium.

Authorities identified the suspect only as “Jonathan,” a retired investor from Missouri.

Police arrested him at about 10 a.m. at a condominium on Juana Osmeña Extension in Barangay Kamputhaw, according to local reports.

The rescue operation began after a mother sought help from Inayawan Police Station 7 to locate her missing teenage daughter. The girl reportedly managed to send her parent a message asking to be rescued, saying the suspect was preventing her and other females from leaving.

Officers from Inayawan Police Station coordinated with Abellana Police Station 2 and the Women and Children Protection Desk. Police reportedly forced open the unit’s door and found nine females ranging in age from 15 to 22.

The teenager also accused the American of sexual abuse.

Police reported recovering a packet of suspected crystal methamphetamine, locally known as shabu, during the operation.

The rescued individuals were referred to social welfare authorities and protection personnel for assessment, psychosocial support and trauma intervention.

The suspect remained detained at Abellana Police Station. Authorities were preparing complaints involving alleged illegal detention, rape and drug possession, while local reports also cited possible human trafficking violations.

He declined to comment on the allegations, saying he would address them in court. Police were conducting a background investigation to determine whether he had pending cases in the Philippines or the United States.