BI Arrests Iranian, Three Indians for Visa Fraud

BI Arrests Iranian, Three Indians for Visa Fraud

By Bing Jabadan – TheNATIONWEEK.com | September 16, 2026

MANILA, Philippines – The Bureau of Immigration (BI) Intelligence Division has launched a robust enforcement campaign, apprehending four foreign nationals across three coordinated operations on September 7. The individuals, including an Iranian and two Indian nationals, face severe immigration violations, underscoring President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive for strict adherence to national laws.

The targeted operations, conducted in Rizal, Quezon City, and Mandaluyong City, resulted in the detention of individuals allegedly engaged in illicit activities and operating without proper documentation.

Illegal (5-6) Lending and Visa Fraud

In Cainta, Rizal, BI operatives executed Mission Order No. 2026-324, leading to the arrest of Indian nationals Lamber Singh, 43, and Ranjodh Singh, 27. Lamber Singh is accused of fraudulently obtaining a resident visa, while Ranjodh Singh was found to be an undocumented alien, lacking valid immigration documents. Both were reportedly involved in predatory “5-6” lending practices.

A separate but equally significant operation in Quezon City’s Fairmont Park Subdivision, under Mission Order No. 2026-323, led to the apprehension of 36-year-old Indian national Kulwinder Singh Gill. His visa had been revoked, rendering him an undocumented alien. Gill was also implicated in “5-6” lending activities, highlighting a recurring pattern in these enforcement actions.

Iranian National Accused of Visa and Business Fraud

In Mandaluyong City, BI agents arrested Saeid Bahadoran Baghbaderani, 33, an Iranian national, pursuant to Mission Order No. 2026-325. Baghbaderani is accused of conducting business without the requisite visa, engaging in alleged fraud and misrepresentation in his prior work visa application, and demonstrating undesirability. He also failed to inform the BI of a change in his residence, a critical immigration requirement.

BI Intelligence Division Chief Fortunato S. Manahan Jr. confirmed that all three operations were meticulously coordinated with relevant Philippine National Police (PNP) units in the respective areas, ensuring seamless execution.

All four individuals are currently held at the BI Warden’s Facility, awaiting deportation proceedings.

Commissioner Issues Stern Warning

BI Commissioner Joel Anthony M. Viado issued a forceful statement, emphasizing the agency’s commitment to upholding the rule of law. “While foreign nationals are welcome to reside and conduct legitimate business in the Philippines, they must unequivocally respect and comply with our immigration laws,” Viado asserted. “Those who transgress these laws will be held fully accountable and dealt with stringently.”

The BI Intelligence Division has affirmed its unwavering resolve to sustain intelligence-driven operations, targeting foreign nationals involved in immigration violations and other unlawful activities, sending a clear message that compliance is paramount.