The Bureau of Immigration (BI) in the Philippines launched a raid at the Zamboanga International Airport, arresting five Chinese nationals attempting to leave the country illegally, including two wanted criminals in China. These individuals were associated with the Philippine offshore gaming operator (POGO) Lucky South 99, which was previously raided for alleged illegal activities.
According to the Bureau of Immigration, the group originally planned to escape to Sabah, Malaysia, via the "backdoor" route of Tawi-Tawi, using what is known as a "transport machine" method to evade law enforcement tracking. However, when their boat encountered engine failure near Langulyan Island in Tawi-Tawi, authorities from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) immediately intercepted and thwarted their escape attempt.
The so-called "transport machine" refers to underground organizations or individuals that assist illegal persons in crossing borders, actively operating along the southern borders of the Philippines, specifically aiding undocumented individuals in smuggling to neighboring countries.
The arrested individuals are Ying Guanzhen, 31, Yang Jinlong, 29, Liu Xin, 28, Shen Kan, 36, and Luo Honglin, 27. After verification by immigration officials, all were confirmed to be blacklisted and wanted for violating Philippine residency regulations.
In light of the urgency, Bureau of Immigration Director Joel Anthony Viado immediately ordered their arrest, and under the escort of the Philippine National Police (PNP), they were transported from Tawi-Tawi to Zamboanga City.
This operation is part of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s policy to strengthen border security, aimed at combating illegal foreign fugitives and criminal POGO personnel.
Viado expressed gratitude for the cooperation of government intelligence agencies and emphasized the importance of enhancing collaboration among departments to maintain national security. "This arrest operation demonstrates our close cooperation with government intelligence agencies, ensuring that the Philippines does not become a haven for fugitives and undocumented foreigners," he stated.
He also called on local governments and law enforcement units in border areas to remain vigilant and prevent illegal border crossings, to stop criminals from using the Philippines as a springboard for crime.
Currently, the Bureau of Immigration is advancing deportation procedures, and the arrested individuals will undergo further scrutiny under the supervision of relevant departments.
