The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has successfully apprehended four foreign nationals who were allegedly engaged in a range of illicit activities, including telecommunications fraud and online gaming scams, during a recent operation in Barangay Pampang, Angeles City. This coordinated effort underscores the agency's commitment to combating transnational crime within Philippine borders.
Coordinated Operation with PNP-AKG
The operation was conducted in close collaboration with the Philippine National Police Anti-Kidnapping Group (PNP-AKG), following actionable intelligence reports that indicated the foreign nationals were actively involved in illegal enterprises. The BI emphasized that this joint initiative was crucial for ensuring a swift and effective response to the threat posed by these individuals.
Details of the Arrest
During the operation, two Japanese-looking females attempted to evade arrest by boarding a vehicle, but BI agents promptly intercepted them. The authorities identified the individuals as Japanese nationals Oi Riho, aged 27, and Moriyama Yu, aged 31. They were apprehended alongside a 42-year-old Japanese national, Kato Hiroaki, and a 32-year-old Chinese national, Wang Xinyu.
All four failed to produce valid passports or identification documents upon request, raising immediate red flags about their legal status in the country. Further investigation revealed that Oi and Kato were overstaying and undocumented aliens, while Moriyama was cited for harboring illegal aliens and being undocumented herself. Wang faced charges for overstaying, being undocumented, and undesirability.
Admissions and Allegations
In the presence of representatives from the Japanese Embassy, the arrested individuals denied any involvement in kidnapping and extortion activities. However, they admitted to participating in scamming operations and online gaming fraud, which are allegedly based in Angeles City. Intelligence reports have identified Wang as the alleged logistics head of the scam hub, responsible for training personnel and managing operational requirements.
Legal Proceedings and Detention
The BI ensured that the foreigners were fully apprised of their constitutional rights in a language they understood, adhering to legal protocols. Following the arrest, they were transferred to the BI Warden Facility in Camp Bagong Diwa, Taguig City, where they will remain pending further legal actions and potential deportation proceedings.
This case highlights the ongoing challenges posed by foreign nationals involved in cybercrime and fraud within the Philippines, prompting increased vigilance and international cooperation to address such threats effectively.
