BI nabs 86 foreigners in illegal scam hub raid

Authorities arrested more than 80 foreign nationals during a massive raid against a suspected scam operation hub in Makati City.

Operatives of the Bureau of Immigration Fugitive Search Unit (BI-FSU) conducted the raid at a condominium in Barangay del Pio del Pilar on April 10 after receiving intelligence information about a suspected scam hub wherein foreign nationals were being forced to work as scammers.

Of the 86 nabbed, 82 were Chinese, three were Malaysians, and one was Vietnamese. They were turned over to the BI detention facility in Camp Bagong Diwa in Bicutan, Taguig while awaiting deportation.

“The presence of foreign nationals working without proper documentation and engaging in criminal activity is a serious breach of our laws and national security,” said BI Commissioner Joel Viado.

“We call on the public to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activities involving illegal aliens,” he said.

According to the BI, the raid stemmed from a distress message that a Chinese national sent via WhatsApp claiming he was being held against his will and was not allowed to leave the workplace.

An investigation showed a syndicate used e-commerce and love scam tactics to earn illegally.

Victims were reportedly lured through fake online orders or dating platforms, deceived into sending money, and never received goods or services in return.

During the raid, immigration agents found 86 foreign nationals working at multiple computer stations, allegedly engaging in online scam operations. The individuals failed to present documentation proving legal residence or work status in the Philippines.

“This operation highlights the continuing threat posed by illegal aliens who exploit digital platforms to scam and defraud innocent victims across borders,” said Viado.

“We remain relentless in upholding President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to deport illegal foreign nationals involved in illicit activities," he said. — BAP, GMA Integrated News