THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) has arrested a 44-year-old Chinese fugitive who attempted to extend his tourist visa, highlighting the government’s intensified crackdown on foreign criminals hiding in the country.
The suspect, identified as Lin Guangxiu, was apprehended on February 11 at the BI’s head office in Intramuros after authorities confirmed that he was the subject of an Interpol Red Notice for drug-related offenses.
Lin is reportedly wanted for prosecution for violating Section 11, Article II of R.A. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
“This arrest demonstrates our unwavering commitment to keeping the country safe from foreign fugitives,” said BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado. “The Philippines will not be a refuge for criminals. We will continue to ensure that our borders remain secure and that those attempting to evade justice are apprehended,” he added.
During the visa extension process, BI personnel detected irregularities in Lin’s records and reported the case to Tourist Visa Section (TVS) Chief Raymond Remigio, who coordinated with the BI’s Fugitive Search Unit (FSU) for Lin’s immediate arrest.
“This case proves the effectiveness of our screening procedures,” said Remigio. “We remain vigilant in preventing foreign fugitives from exploiting our immigration system.”
According to authorities, in 2019, Lin and his accomplice were found to possess over 138 pieces of tape-sealed transparent packs containing around 270,000 gm of Methampethamine Hydrochloride or ‘shabu’.
Lin is now detained at the BI facility inside Camp Bagong Diwa in Bicutan while awaiting deportation proceedings.
His arrest aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.’s directive to strengthen border security and uphold the rule of law by ensuring that fugitives and other undesirable aliens are removed from the country.
“We will continue working with international law enforcement agencies to track down fugitives and deport them without delay,” Viado added.
Viado further warned that any foreign national attempting to evade justice will face immediate legal action.
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