Immigration authorities arrested two Korean fugitives wanted by authorities in Korea for cyberfraud and swindling a number of their victims amounting to more than P10 million.
The Koreans, identified as Jang Kilwan and Lee Junhee, were arrested inside their condominium unit in Fairview, Quezon City by operatives from the BI, led by Immigration Officer Edward Mabborang.
The two Koreans reportedly fled to the Philippines three years ago to escape prosecution from justice.
Immigration Commissioner Jaime Morente said the Korean embassy sought the bureau’s assistance for the arrest and deportation of the two suspects so that they can be tried and sentenced for their crimes.
Both Jang and Lee are wanted in Korea for illegally operating and maintaining a private Internet sports gambling site from which they allegedly profited of more than US$200,000 or equivalent to more than P10 million.
“They would reportedly ask customers who gamble on their site to remit money to their illegally borrowed bank accounts. Having them remain in the country poses a risk against public interest and safety,” Morente said.
“Their illegal activities likewise prompted the Interpol in Seoul to put them in its Red Notice list,” the BI chief said.
The bureau included Jang’s and Lee’s name in the BI blacklist to prevent them from reentering the Philippines.
“They are now banned from returning to Philippines to ensure that they will not transfer their illegal activities here,” Morente said.
“Foreign criminals are not welcome to hide here. We are in close coordination with our foreign counterparts to ensure that these fugitives be sent back to their countries to face justice,” he added.
