BI arrests overstaying American wanted in US for alleged drug trafficking

The Bureau of Immigration on Saturday said it has arrested an American overstaying in the Philippines who is wanted in the US for alleged drug trafficking.

The American fugitive, now in BI custody, was identified by BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado as Henry Watkins, 51, also known as "Tutu".

He was arrested at his residence in Barangay Ubaliw, Polangui, Albay on March 18 by BI Fugitive Search Unit (FSU) operatives, the BI said.

The arrest was made in coordination with US authorities who sought BI's assistance, it added.

Watkins is on the wanted list of the US Drug Enforcement Administration for his alleged links to the Sinaloa drug cartel in Central America.

He has been charged with large-scale drug trafficking and the distribution of methamphetamine and heroin. An arrest warrant was issued Feb. 26 by a US District Court in Northern Iowa, the BI said.

“He will be deported for overstaying and for being an undesirable alien. We cannot allow the Philippines to be used as a sanctuary for foreigners involved in illegal drugs,” Viado said.

Overstaying Egyptian

Meanwhile, BI-FSU operatives also arrested an overstaying Egyptian national in Barangay Igualdad, Naga City on March 19.

The BI identified him as Bakhit Akram Mnayer Gouda, 37.

Gouda was apprehended after a complaint was filed against him for direct assault and oral defamation against a police officer.

He also faces a complaint filed by a local resident for violations of the Safe Spaces Act due to alleged immoral acts.

Gouda, who is currently in BI custody, will be deported, the BI said. —KG, GMA Integrated News