Manila: The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has arrested a Japanese national wanted in his home country for fraud. In a news release on Friday, BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado stated that the 53-year-old alias Suk was apprehended during a targeted enforcement operation along Soriano Ave., Intramuros, Manila, on May 20. The operation was conducted by operatives of the BI's fugitive search unit (FSU), in close coordination with Japanese authorities and the Philippine National Police.

According to Philippines News Agency, 'Suk' is the subject of an active arrest warrant issued by the Fukuoka Summary Court in Japan in February 2026 for fraud and theft. Japanese authorities revealed that he was part of a specialized criminal group that unlawfully obtained ATM cards and personal data by impersonating law enforcement officers. The syndicate allegedly targeted and deceived vulnerable, elderly victims into surrendering their banking information under the guise of fake police investigations, leading to unauthorized withdrawals amounting to 100,000 Japanese yen.

BI Commissioner Viado emphasized, "Our country is not a sanctuary for international fraudsters who prey on the vulnerable." Operational background investigations indicated that the foreigner originally arrived in the Philippines as a temporary visitor in 2019. He managed to convert his visa to permanent resident status in April 2025. However, the Japanese government informed the BI of his case in April 2026, which led to the investigation and subsequent arrest.

The fugitive is now detained at the BI's holding facility while facing the deportation case filed against him.