The Bureau of Immigration (BI) arrested five foreign nationals during a raid on a suspected online scam hub in Parañaque City as part of the government's intensified campaign against transnational crime.
The operation, conducted on June 17 at a condominium complex in Sapphire Seaview Park, stemmed from intelligence reports linking the location to an alleged "love scam" operation involving online deception and cryptocurrency-related schemes.
Arrested were Chinese national Tang Shun, Malaysian national Chia Kong Loon, and Burmese nationals Kum Htoi, Myo Oo, and Kyaw Tint Lwin. Immigration authorities said the individuals were found to have violated Philippine immigration laws.
The BI also received reports that some workers connected to the operation were allegedly being restricted from leaving the premises freely, prompting further investigation. Information provided by one of the foreign nationals led authorities to additional condominium units allegedly used for unlawful activities.
BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado reaffirmed the agency's commitment to combating foreign nationals involved in illegal operations.
“Foreign nationals who abuse their stay in the Philippines by engaging in fraudulent schemes and other unlawful activities will face the full consequences of our immigration laws,” Viado said.
The arrested individuals were transferred to the BI holding facility and are now facing deportation and other immigration proceedings.
