The Bureau of Immigration (BI) announced Sunday that it is intensifying its internal investigation following the re-arrest of South Korean fugitive Na Ikhyeon, who escaped from custody under suspicious circumstances.
BI Commissioner Joel Viado also warned that more employees face suspension for potential involvement or negligence.
Na, wanted in South Korea for fraud and other charges, was initially arrested in the Philippines but escaped BI custody on March 4. He was recaptured on March 9.
“This incident exposed deep-rooted problems within the system. This is not a simple mistake. There’s collusion here,” Viado said in Filipino, according to a news release.
“We are identifying more personnel who may have played a role, directly or indirectly, in this escape,” he said, emphasizing that they have already recommended the preventive suspension of several BI personnel.
This is in addition to two contractual workers already fired and a permanent BI employee dismissed from service and facing charges.
To prevent future incidents, Viado ordered the tightening of surveillance, implementation of background checks, rotation of personnel, and strengthening of ties with foreign intelligence agencies. Plans are also underway to move detainees to a more secure facility.
Law enforcement agencies, including the National Bureau of Investigation, the Philippine National Police, and the International Police (Interpol), are working closely with the BI to ensure the immediate arrest and deportation of fugitives.
On Saturday, the BI said it had turned over the case of Na, who was re-arrested with his companion in a residential area in Angeles City, Pampanga, to the Department of Justice.