Intelligence operatives of the Bureau of Immigration (BI) have arrested 14 Nigerian nationals suspected of being involved in fraudulent activities.
The operation, led by BI intelligence operatives in coordination with local law enforcement elements, took place inside a gated subdivision in Las Piñas City.
BI Intelligence Division Chief Fortunato Manahan, Jr. stated that the apprehension was based on credible intelligence work linking the suspects to multiple fraudulent schemes. "Our intelligence division has been closely monitoring these individuals. They were reportedly involved in love scams, online scamming, and credit card fraud," Manahan explained.
Manahan said that their initial target were two suspects identified as Godswill Nnamdi Chukwu, 32, and Justin Chimezie Obi, 30. However, 12 other Nigerians were found in the vicinity.
All 14 Nigerians were found to be overstaying, in violation of the conditions of their stay, hence were immediately arrested.
BI Commissioner Norman Tansingco underscored the significance of these arrests in protecting the country from fraudulent activities. "These arrests underscore our commitment to safeguarding our nation's security and maintaining the integrity of our immigration laws. We will continue to work tirelessly to bring violators to justice," Tansingco said.
Tansingco highlighted the agency's dedication to maintaining law and order. "The Bureau of Immigration will not tolerate any form of fraudulent activity from foreign nationals. We are dedicated to ensuring that our country remains a safe place for our citizens and visitors alike," he added.
All 14 suspects will remain in the BI's holding facility inside Camp Bagong Diwa, Taguig, pending deportation proceedings.
The BI continues to urge the public to report any suspicious activities to help maintain the peace and security of the Philippines. "We rely on the cooperation of the public to help us in our mission to protect our nation from those who seek to exploit and defraud," Tansingco concluded.
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