Chang Chia Wei : “BI Escalates Pursuit of Alien Fugitives in Intense Drive”

Accident – Death – Obituary News : : 1. “BI intensifies drive against alien fugitives”
2. “Bureau of Immigration crackdown on alien fugitives”

The Bureau of Immigration stresses the need for timely information exchange among foreign governments to prevent fugitives from entering the Philippines. Commissioner Norman Tansingco highlights the importance of knowing the backgrounds of foreigners to properly screen out those with criminal records. Senator Sherwin Gatchalian raised concerns about BI personnel conspiring with fugitives linked to Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO). Recent raids on illegal gambling operations revealed foreign nationals identified as fugitives by their own governments months or even years after arriving in the country. Improved information sharing could help BI allocate resources effectively and prevent foreign fugitives from finding refuge in the Philippines.

BI Emphasizes Importance of Timely Information Exchange

The Bureau of Immigration has stressed the vital role of timely information exchange among foreign governments to prevent fugitives from entering the Philippines. Commissioner Norman Tansingco highlighted the need for the BI to have access to the backgrounds and relevant details of foreigners arriving in the country. This information is crucial for the proper screening and identification of individuals with criminal records.

Senator Gatchalian’s Concern Over BI Personnel Allegedly Conspiring with Fugitives

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian recently expressed concern over allegations that some BI personnel may be colluding with fugitives linked to Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO). The issue came to light following the arrest of Taiwanese fugitive Chang Chia Wei during a raid at a POGO hub in Bamban, Tarlac. Gatchalian questioned how fugitives from other countries were able to enter the Philippines and whether there was a deliberate effort to facilitate their entry.

BI Analysis Reveals Fugitives Identified After Illegal Online Gambling Raids

An analysis conducted by the BI revealed that foreign nationals detained during recent raids on illegal online gambling operations had been identified as fugitives by their respective governments months or even years after entering the country. Commissioner Tansingco emphasized that timely sharing of information on their criminal records would have enabled the BI to prevent their entry from the outset. Improved information sharing would also allow the BI to allocate its resources more effectively.

Success Stories in Intercepting Foreign Fugitives

Commissioner Tansingco highlighted the BI’s success in intercepting registered sexual offenders at ports of entry, thanks to timely information provided by the United States government. The agency’s central database of derogatory records connected to Interpol has also enhanced its ability to intercept individuals with Interpol hits. In 2023, a total of 3,359 foreign nationals were excluded by the BI, with 39 flagged after registering hits on Interpol’s database.

Arrest of Foreign Fugitives Involved in Various Crimes

In the past year, the BI arrested 128 fugitives from different countries, including South Korea, China, Japan, Sudan, and Mongolia. These individuals were wanted for crimes such as fraud, violent offences, organ trafficking, and corruption. Tansingco revealed that since 2023, he has been working closely with foreign embassies and consulates to share data on fugitives, enabling their interception at ports of entry.

Enhancing Border Security Through Improved Information Sharing

The BI’s commitment to preventing foreign fugitives from finding refuge in the Philippines underscores the importance of robust information exchange mechanisms with foreign governments. By leveraging timely and accurate information, the BI aims to strengthen border security and safeguard the country against criminal elements seeking to exploit its borders. Through collaborative efforts and enhanced data sharing, the BI continues to uphold its mandate of protecting the nation’s security and integrity.