The man is said to be involved in the recent attacks against government websites

Nov 14, 2013 08:55 GMT  ·  By

Authorities in the Philippines have arrested an individual believed to be involved in the recent cyberattacks against around 40 government websites. The attacks took place just before activists from all over the world participated in the November 5 Million March Mask protests. 

According to PhilStar, the suspect is Rodel Plasabas. He had allegedly used online monikers such as “Reaper,” “anonymousbutuan,” and “Anon Reaper.” He’s said to be a leader of the Anonymous Philippines collective.

Plasabas was detained by officers of the National Bureau of Investigation. Philippines Justice Secretary Leila De Lima revealed that the suspect was online when authorities arrested him.

An initial investigation shows that he had been engaged in online conversations regarding hacking websites.

A few days ago, De Lima promised to track down the hackers involved in the attacks against government websites. The official noted that those responsible would be prosecuted under the e-Commerce Act, since the Cybercrime Prevention Law was under a restraining order from the country’s Supreme Court.