Massive Raid in Parañaque Nets 400 Undocumented Foreigners in Alleged Scam Operation

In a significant crackdown, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) apprehended approximately 400 undocumented foreigners during a raid on a suspected scam operation in Parañaque City. The operation, which took place on Wednesday, targeted a facility in Barangay Tambo, believed to be involved in activities akin to those of Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGO). BI Intelligence Division Chief Fortunato Manahan Jr. revealed that the raid was the culmination of extensive surveillance by the BI’s Intelligence Division, Fugitive Search Unit, and Anti-Terrorist Group, who had been monitoring the group’s activities for some time. The arrested individuals are suspected of engaging in online scams targeting international victims, activities that not only breach immigration laws but also pose a considerable threat to public safety. Currently, these individuals are in the process of being booked and will be detained pending deportation proceedings. The BI is working closely with other government bodies to hasten these proceedings and ensure accountability for any legal violations. BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado emphasized that this raid is part of a broader initiative to curb illegal activities and enforce compliance with immigration laws among foreign nationals in the Philippines. He reiterated President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive that POGO workers who continue to violate the country’s laws will face arrest and deportation.