Manila, Philippines – The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has successfully apprehended two Japanese fugitives wanted for fraud in their home country. The operation, conducted in Pasay City, is part of the government’s intensified efforts to combat transnational crime under the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
According to a press release from the Bureau of Immigration, the suspects, identified as Oi Takumi (30) and Okada Sho (27), were arrested on April 28 along Roxas Boulevard. The operation was carried out by the BI Fugitive Search Unit (FSU) in coordination with Japan’s National Police Agency.
Fraud Charges Filed in Japan
- Nature of the Crime: The suspects are accused of conspiring to commit fraud by impersonating law enforcement officers, a violation under the Japanese Penal Code.
- Active Warrants: Arrest warrants were issued earlier this month by the Kokura Summary Court in Japan.
- Evidence Collection: Japanese authorities requested the preservation of digital evidence, including mobile phones and computers, to support ongoing investigations.
Immigration Violations in the Philippines
- Entry Records: Both suspects entered the Philippines in January 2026 as temporary visitors.
- Overstaying Status: They failed to extend or update their stay, leading to their classification as overstaying aliens.
- Deportation Basis: Their immigration violations serve as grounds for deportation proceedings.
BI’s Commitment to Justice
BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado reiterated the agency’s firm stance against harboring foreign fugitives. “Foreign nationals who come to the Philippines to evade justice in their home countries will find no refuge here. We are working closely with our international partners to ensure that fugitives are located, arrested, and returned to face the consequences of their crimes,” he said.
Detention and Deportation Proceedings
- Current Status: The suspects are detained at the BI Warden Facility.
- Legal Process: They will remain in custody while facing deportation cases filed against them.
- International Cooperation: The operation underscores the Philippines’ dedication to collaborating with global law enforcement agencies to uphold justice.