The Bureau of Immigration (BI) announced the apprehension of 86 foreign nationals, including 82 Chinese, three Malaysians and one Vietnamese, following a massive raid on an alleged scam operation at a condominium along Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue, Brgy. Pio del Pilar, Makati City, last April 10.
BI spokesperson Dana Sandoval said the operation was conducted by the BI’s Fugitive Search Unit (FSU) under Rendel Ryan Sy, in coordination with the Philippine National Police – Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, National Capital Region Field Unit (CIDG-NCRFU), based on a mission order issued by BI after receiving intelligence information about the operation of an alleged scam hub forcing foreign nationals to work as scammers.
According to a report received from CIDG-NCRFU, a Chinese national sent a distress message via WhatsApp claiming he was being held against his will and was not allowed to leave the workplace.
Further case build-up by the CIDG revealed that the syndicate used e-commerce and love scam tactics to earn illegally.
Sandoval said the 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.
All apprehended individuals are undergoing booking and documentation procedures, and will be turned over to the BI Warden’s Facility (BIWF) inside Camp Bagong Diwa in Bicutan, Taguig. Deportation proceedings are expected to follow.
