THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) reported the arrest of three alleged Chinese nationals involved in online scamming and money laundering activities during an enforcement operation in Angeles City, Pampanga.
Operatives from the BI’s Fugitive Search Unit (FSU), in coordination with the National Bureau of Investigation–Organized and Transnational Crimes Division (NBI-OTCD), conducted the operation on the evening of April 27 at a residential property in Pulu Amsic subdivision, Angeles City.
Arrested were Zhang Zheng, 42; Ren Yi, 28; and Zhang Shengjun, 31, who were reportedly caught in flagrante delicto while operating computer equipment allegedly used for fraudulent online schemes targeting foreign victims.
The operation stemmed from intelligence information provided by the NBI indicating that the suspects were part of so-called “breakaway” scam hubs—groups believed to be composed of former Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) workers who have resumed illegal activities in residential areas to evade authorities.
Initial verification showed that while one of the suspects holds a valid working visa, another has an expired visa, and the third is a permanent resident. However, all three failed to present their passports or any valid immigration documents at the time of arrest.
BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado emphasized the Bureau’s continued vigilance against foreign nationals engaged in illicit activities.
“We will not allow the Philippines to be used as a safe haven for criminal syndicates. These individuals exploit our hospitality while engaging in fraudulent schemes that victimize people across borders. We are intensifying our operations against these ‘breakaway’ groups and will ensure that those who violate our laws are arrested, deported, and permanently barred from re-entering the country,” Viado said.
The suspects will remain in the BI Warden Facility while facing deportation proceedings.
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