BI Cracks Down on Transnational Fraud: Japanese Fugitives, Chinese Scammers Apprehended

BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado

BI Cracks Down on Transnational Fraud: Japanese Fugitives, Chinese Scammers Apprehended

By Bing Jabadan – TheNATIONWEEK.com | April 30, 2026

MANILA, Philippines – In a heightened effort to combat transnational crime, the Philippine Bureau of Immigration (BI) has recently apprehended two Japanese fugitives wanted for fraud and three Chinese nationals allegedly involved in online scamming and money laundering. These arrests underscore the BI’s commitment to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to strengthen enforcement against foreign criminals exploiting the Philippines.

Japanese Fraud Suspects Nabbed in Pasay

On April 28, BI’s Fugitive Search Unit (FSU) agents, in coordination with the National Police Agency of Japan, arrested Oi Takumi, 30, and Okada Sho, 27, along Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City. Both Japanese nationals are subjects of active arrest warrants issued by Japan’s Kokura Summary Court for fraud under the Japanese Penal Code. Authorities allege the suspects conspired in a financial scam, impersonating law enforcement officers.

The apprehension followed close coordination with Japanese authorities, who specifically requested the preservation of digital evidence, including mobile phones and computers, to aid their ongoing investigations. Immigration records reveal both individuals entered the Philippines in January as temporary visitors but failed to extend their stay, classifying them as overstaying aliens and providing grounds for their deportation.

Chinese Nationals Arrested in Pampanga for Online Scamming

Separately, on the evening of April 27, BI’s FSU operatives, collaborating with the National Bureau of Investigation–Organized and Transnational Crimes Division (NBI-OTCD), conducted an operation in Angeles City, Pampanga. This led to the arrest of Zhang Zheng, 42; Ren Yi, 28; and Zhang Shengjun, 31. The three Chinese nationals were found operating computer equipment allegedly used for fraudulent online schemes targeting foreign victims at a residential property in Pulu Amsic subdivision.

Intelligence from the NBI indicated these suspects are part of “breakaway” scam hubs—groups believed to be former Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) workers who have resumed illegal activities in residential areas to evade detection. While one suspect holds a valid working visa and another has permanent resident status, one had an expired visa. Crucially, all three failed to present passports or valid immigration documents upon arrest.

BI Commissioner Emphasizes No Refuge for Fugitives and Scammers

BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado unequivocally stated the Bureau’s firm stance against foreign criminals. “Foreign nationals who come to the Philippines to evade justice in their home countries will find no refuge here,” Viado declared regarding the Japanese fugitives. “We are working closely with our international partners to ensure that fugitives are located, arrested, and returned to face the consequences of their crimes.”

Addressing the Chinese nationals, Commissioner Viado reiterated, “We will not allow the Philippines to be used as a safe haven for criminal syndicates. These individuals exploit our hospitality while engaging in fraudulent schemes that victimize people across borders. We are intensifying our operations against these ‘breakaway’ groups and will ensure that those who violate our laws are arrested, deported, and permanently barred from re-entering the country.”

Both sets of suspects are currently held at the BI Warden Facility, where they await deportation proceedings. The arrests highlight the Philippine government’s resolute efforts to combat transnational crime and uphold the integrity of its borders.