BI-FSU Nabs Japanese Fugitive in Manila for Elder Fraud

BI-FSU Nabs Japanese Fugitive in Manila for Elder Fraud

By Bing Jabadan – TheNATIONWEEK.com | May 22, 2026

MANILA, Philippines – The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has successfully apprehended a Japanese national sought in his home country for a sophisticated elder fraud scheme, reinforcing efforts to secure the nation’s borders against transnational criminals.

BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado confirmed the capture of 53-year-old Alias ‘Suk’, who was taken into custody during a targeted enforcement operation along Soriano Avenue, Intramuros, Manila, on the afternoon of May 20.

The operation was executed by operatives of the BI’s Fugitive Search Unit (FSU), under the leadership of Chief Rendel Ryan Sy, working in close coordination with Japanese authorities and the Philippine National Police.

Alias ‘Suk’ is the subject of an active arrest warrant issued by the Fukuoka Summary Court in Japan, dated February 2026, for charges of fraud and theft. Japanese authorities revealed that the suspect was a member of a specialized criminal group that meticulously targeted and deceived elderly victims. This syndicate unlawfully obtained ATM cards and personal data by impersonating law enforcement officers, coercing vulnerable individuals into surrendering their banking information under the guise of fake police investigations. These illicit activities led to unauthorized withdrawals totaling 100,000 Japanese yen.

“Our country is not a sanctuary for international fraudsters who prey on the vulnerable,” stated Commissioner Viado. “Our borders are strictly closed to individuals who evade justice. Our successful collaboration with international partners ensures that fugitives like him will be caught and repatriated to face the full force of the law.”

Background investigations indicated that Alias ‘Suk’ initially arrived in the Philippines as a temporary visitor in 2019 and subsequently converted his visa to permanent resident status in April 2025. However, the Japanese government officially informed the BI of his criminal case in April 2026, initiating the subsequent investigation and arrest.

Alias ‘Suk’ is currently detained at the BI’s holding facility pending deportation proceedings.