THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) on Monday warned the public against dealing with fixers and unauthorized agents following the arrest of two individuals who falsely claimed to be BI employees.
According to reports, operatives of the Quezon City Police District (QCPD) Criminal Investigation and Detection Unit arrested the suspects in an entrapment operation inside Camp Karingal on Friday night. The two were accused of extorting money from a 43-year-old Korean national in exchange for the renewal of his working visa and Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR).
In a statement, BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado confirmed that the identities of the arrested individuals have been verified and that they are not employees of the Bureau of Immigration.
“We commend the swift action of the QCPD in apprehending these individuals who misrepresented themselves as BI personnel,” said Viado. “We remind the public to remain vigilant and to never transact with fixers or unauthorized agents.”
Viado emphasized that all legitimate immigration services can be conveniently and securely availed through the Bureau’s online e-services portal at e-services.immigration.gov.ph or by visiting any of the more than 60 BI offices nationwide.
“The Bureau continues to promote transparency and integrity in public service,” he added. “We urge the public to report anyone posing as a BI employee or engaging in illegal activities in the name of the agency.”
The BI also encouraged other possible victims to come forward and report the incident to the police.
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