The Bureau of Immigration (BI) of the Philippines recently announced that a Chinese national wanted for operating illegal online gambling in China was arrested during a joint law enforcement operation in Makati City.
The man is currently undergoing deportation proceedings and will be permanently blacklisted by the Philippines, prohibiting re-entry.
The suspect, 32-year-old Li Wenjie, was arrested on April 28 at his residence in Barangay Bangkal, Gen. V. Lucban Street, Makati City by the Fugitive Search Unit (FSU) of the Immigration Bureau. The operation was based on intelligence provided by Chinese law enforcement agencies.
Investigations revealed that since his entry into the Philippines in May 2023, Li Wenjie has been staying illegally beyond his visa period. Meanwhile, he is accused in China of engaging in illegal gambling activities through the online platform "Qikai Desheng" and recruiting agents to expand his network, earning substantial commissions. According to Chinese authorities, his illegal earnings amounted to 1.1 million yuan, approximately $154,000 (or 8.5 million pesos).
The Public Security Bureau of Luzhou City, Sichuan, China, has officially issued a warrant for Li Wenjie, accusing him of gambling activities that seriously disrupt public order and constitute a criminal offense.
Joel Antonio Viado, the Director of the Philippines Bureau of Immigration, emphasized in a statement: "The Philippines will not become a haven for foreign fugitives. We will continue to combat illegal stay and foreign-related crimes, fully cooperating with international law enforcement."
Li Wenjie has been transferred to the immigration detention center in Taguig City, and relevant departments are accelerating his deportation process. The Immigration Bureau stated that once the deportation is completed, Li Wenjie will be permanently prohibited from re-entering the Philippines.
