BI Nabs Japanese Fugitive Alleged JP Dragon Syndicate Leader

BI Nabs Japanese Fugitive Alleged JP Dragon Syndicate Leader

By Bing Jabadan – TheNATIONWEEK.com | November 2, 2026

MANILA, Philippines – The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has apprehended a high-profile Japanese fugitive, YAMAMOTO YOSHITAMA, 57, an alleged leader of the notorious transnational criminal syndicate JP Dragon. The arrest occurred during an operation in Cabanatuan City on October 31, 2026.

Yamamoto was targeted under a Warrant of Deportation (Order No. 2023-160, dated July 18, 2023). This action aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to intensify immigration law enforcement and bolster efforts against foreign criminals seeking refuge in the Philippines.

Japanese authorities issued an arrest warrant for Yamamoto on December 27, 2022, from the Fukuoka Summary Court, citing charges of fraud, theft, and attempted theft.

According to BI Fugitive Search Unit (FSU) Chief Rendell Ryan D. Sy, Yamamoto is a suspected key figure within JP Dragon. This Japan-based criminal organization, reportedly composed largely of former yakuza members, is believed to concentrate its operations in Metro Manila.

The syndicate is implicated in sophisticated telephone fraud schemes that prey on elderly Japanese citizens. Its members allegedly impersonate police officers to trick victims into surrendering ATM cards and banking details. Japanese investigators estimate the syndicate has defrauded approximately 250 victims of around ¥900 million since 2019.

Yamamoto is currently held at the BI Warden’s Facility, awaiting deportation proceedings.

BI Commissioner Joel Anthony M. Viado issued a forceful declaration, affirming that the Philippines will not tolerate its use as a sanctuary for international criminals.

“The Philippines is not, and will never be, a safe haven for foreign fugitives,” Viado stated. “Those who believe they can evade justice by hiding here are mistaken. We will track them down, arrest them, and ensure they face the consequences. Our vital cooperation with foreign law enforcement agencies keeps our borders secure and prevents the Philippines from being exploited by international criminals.”

The BI has pledged to continue its intensified operations against foreign fugitives and undesirable aliens, working in close coordination with both local and international law enforcement agencies.

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